Meet
Your Team

We know healthcare. Our breadth and depth of expertise and experience in this sector is truly unmatched. If you ask anyone who has worked with us, which includes nearly all of the Fortune 500 companies in healthcare, they will tell you that we are deeply substantive, data driven, and creative in bringing unique solutions to the table. Check us out.

Stacie Abbott

Senior Manager

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StacieAbbott

Stacie Abbott, Senior Manager, leads strategic planning, development and implementation of Avalere’s Policy 360 research program, a business intelligence product that focuses on healthcare policy developments and their implications for life sciences companies, health plans and providers. Stacie helps clients anticipate the impact of healthcare policies by providing updates on recent developments, producing in-depth analyses of major issues and identifying long-term trends for healthcare stakeholders.

Prior to joining Avalere, Stacie was the Policy Information Manager at AbbVie, responsible for researching and analyzing the effects of state and federal policy developments on the pharmaceutical industry. She prepared briefings, newsletters and talking points around these developments. Prior to that, she was the Policy Information Manager for Abbott Labs.

Stacie has a BA from the University of Kansas.

Abbott

Stacie

Senior Manager

Stacie Abbott, Senior Manager, leads strategic planning, development and implementation of Avalere’s Policy 360 research program, a business intelligence product that focuses on healthcare policy developments and their implications for life sciences companies, health plans and providers. Stacie helps clients anticipate the impact of healthcare policies by providing updates on recent developments, producing in-depth analyses of major issues and identifying long-term trends for healthcare stakeholders.

Prior to joining Avalere, Stacie was the Policy Information Manager at AbbVie, responsible for researching and analyzing the effects of state and federal policy developments on the pharmaceutical industry. She prepared briefings, newsletters and talking points around these developments. Prior to that, she was the Policy Information Manager for Abbott Labs.

Stacie has a BA from the University of Kansas.

Madeline Abram

Senior Associate

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MadelineAbram

Madeline Abram, Senior Associate, supports marketing and branding efforts across a variety of distribution channels. She is responsible for the execution of Avalere’s Expert Webinar Series, e-mail marketing, and overall project management support for marketing campaigns across all sectors. Madeline has a strong background in project management and e-mail marketing.

Abram

Madeline

Senior Associate

Madeline Abram, Senior Associate, supports marketing and branding efforts across a variety of distribution channels. She is responsible for the execution of Avalere’s Expert Webinar Series, e-mail marketing, and overall project management support for marketing campaigns across all sectors. Madeline has a strong background in project management and e-mail marketing.

Protima Advani

Vice President

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ProtimaAdvani

Protima Advani, Vice President, provides strategic guidance on the business impacts of payment and delivery system reform and health information technology policy. Her clients include providers, life sciences companies, trade associations, HIT vendors, and other healthcare industry stakeholders interested in pursuing new strategies and business opportunities resultant from policy-driven evolving market dynamics. She also focuses on evaluating new business opportunities for expanding Avalere's footprint in existing and new markets.

Prior to joining Avalere, Protima worked at the Advisory Board Company. Before that, she was an independent consultant for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Veterans Health Administration.

Protima has a MA in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania and a BS in Mathematics, Economics, and Finance from West Virginia Wesleyan College.

Advani

Protima

Vice President

Protima Advani, Vice President, provides strategic guidance on the business impacts of payment and delivery system reform and health information technology policy. Her clients include providers, life sciences companies, trade associations, HIT vendors, and other healthcare industry stakeholders interested in pursuing new strategies and business opportunities resultant from policy-driven evolving market dynamics. She also focuses on evaluating new business opportunities for expanding Avalere's footprint in existing and new markets.

Prior to joining Avalere, Protima worked at the Advisory Board Company. Before that, she was an independent consultant for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Veterans Health Administration.

Protima has a MA in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania and a BS in Mathematics, Economics, and Finance from West Virginia Wesleyan College.

Prior to joining Avalere, Barnabie served as a Senior Manager in Health Economics and Outcomes Research at the Medco Research Institute and as a Research Associate for Pfizer Inc., Global Outcomes Research. At Medco, Barnabie developed economic models and conducted retrospective research analyses to illustrate the cost-effectiveness and value of pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine. At Pfizer, Barnabie assisted in drafting product dossiers, pharmacoeconomics research analysis, and other outcomes research initiatives in support of launching and pre-existing urology products.

Barnabie has a BS in Public Health from The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and a MPH in Epidemiology from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey – School of Public Health.

Prior to joining Avalere, Barnabie served as a Senior Manager in Health Economics and Outcomes Research at the Medco Research Institute and as a Research Associate for Pfizer Inc., Global Outcomes Research. At Medco, Barnabie developed economic models and conducted retrospective research analyses to illustrate the cost-effectiveness and value of pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine. At Pfizer, Barnabie assisted in drafting product dossiers, pharmacoeconomics research analysis, and other outcomes research initiatives in support of launching and pre-existing urology products.

Barnabie has a BS in Public Health from The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and a MPH in Epidemiology from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey – School of Public Health.

Lilla Alchon

Associate

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Lilla Alchon

Lilla Alchon, Business Development Associate, advises clients on the Vantage Care Positioning System. Lilla works with healthcare providers to expand their perspective on patient referrals while emphasizing the importance of comprehensive data to manage patients effectively across care settings.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lilla was a Communication/Policy Intern with Law Media Group, Inc., where she conducted healthcare research, primarily focusing on the rise of telemedicine. Lilla also served as a Legislative Intern in the office of Senator Tom Carper, where she assisted with health policy research.

Lilla has a BA in Sociology, with a concentration in health and illness, and a minor in Political Science from the University of Delaware.

Alchon

Lilla

Associate

Lilla Alchon, Business Development Associate, advises clients on the Vantage Care Positioning System. Lilla works with healthcare providers to expand their perspective on patient referrals while emphasizing the importance of comprehensive data to manage patients effectively across care settings.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lilla was a Communication/Policy Intern with Law Media Group, Inc., where she conducted healthcare research, primarily focusing on the rise of telemedicine. Lilla also served as a Legislative Intern in the office of Senator Tom Carper, where she assisted with health policy research.

Lilla has a BA in Sociology, with a concentration in health and illness, and a minor in Political Science from the University of Delaware.

Rachel Armstrong

Manager

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Rachel Armstrong

Rachel Armstrong, Manager, leads business development and strategic planning for our Life Sciences Business Intelligence Product team. She applies her special expertise in population health management, e-prescribing, and medication adherence to advise clients on market access, product commercialization, and payer planning.

Prior to joining Avalere, Rachel was the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Timbuk Fitness, the nation’s first targeted preventative health and fitness program for African Americans, certifying instructors nationwide, partnering with national fitness chains, and creating online website content. Prior to that, she was an Associate Channel Manager at DrFirst, where she led strategy, business development, and marketing efforts for 83 EMR companies, in addition to providing training in the use of electronic prescription software and medication adherence platforms.

Rachel received her BA from Baylor University and is currently pursuing an MHA at Marymount University.

Armstrong

Rachel

Manager

Rachel Armstrong, Manager, leads business development and strategic planning for our Life Sciences Business Intelligence Product team. She applies her special expertise in population health management, e-prescribing, and medication adherence to advise clients on market access, product commercialization, and payer planning.

Prior to joining Avalere, Rachel was the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Timbuk Fitness, the nation’s first targeted preventative health and fitness program for African Americans, certifying instructors nationwide, partnering with national fitness chains, and creating online website content. Prior to that, she was an Associate Channel Manager at DrFirst, where she led strategy, business development, and marketing efforts for 83 EMR companies, in addition to providing training in the use of electronic prescription software and medication adherence platforms.

Rachel received her BA from Baylor University and is currently pursuing an MHA at Marymount University.

Joanna Band

Manager

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JoannaBand

Joanna Band, Manager, advises clients on market access and product commercialization, with a specific focus on reimbursement and patient access. She helps customers anticipate and prepare for optimizing access across a variety of settings of care and for a number of disease states throughout the product lifecycle.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joanna helped clients resolve patient access issues through different roles at United BioSource and Covance, Inc.

Joanna holds a BA from the Health Administration and Policy Program of the University of Maryland.

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Band

Joanna

Manager

Joanna Band, Manager, advises clients on market access and product commercialization, with a specific focus on reimbursement and patient access. She helps customers anticipate and prepare for optimizing access across a variety of settings of care and for a number of disease states throughout the product lifecycle.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joanna helped clients resolve patient access issues through different roles at United BioSource and Covance, Inc.

Joanna holds a BA from the Health Administration and Policy Program of the University of Maryland.

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Jie Bao

Director

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JieBao

Jie Bao, Director, conducts quantitative analysis of the impact of various legislative and policy changes on the healthcare industry. She develops Congressional Budget Office-style legislative scores on various healthcare initiatives, and provides on-going support of data analytics to multiple clients. Recently, she led the data analytical work for our clients participating in the CMS Bundled Payment for Care Improvement Initiative. She also helps clients in the life sciences sector identify opportunities from the changing reimbursement environment.

Prior to Avalere, Jie spent more than 10 years on Wall Street, starting at JPMorgan Chase as an investment banking analyst in the Global Mergers & Acquisitions department. She eventually became an Associate Equity Analyst at both JPMorgan and Citigroup, covering the healthcare services and the emerging medical technology sector.

Jie has a BS in Finance from the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut.

Bao

Jie

Director

Jie Bao, Director, conducts quantitative analysis of the impact of various legislative and policy changes on the healthcare industry. She develops Congressional Budget Office-style legislative scores on various healthcare initiatives, and provides on-going support of data analytics to multiple clients. Recently, she led the data analytical work for our clients participating in the CMS Bundled Payment for Care Improvement Initiative. She also helps clients in the life sciences sector identify opportunities from the changing reimbursement environment.

Prior to Avalere, Jie spent more than 10 years on Wall Street, starting at JPMorgan Chase as an investment banking analyst in the Global Mergers & Acquisitions department. She eventually became an Associate Equity Analyst at both JPMorgan and Citigroup, covering the healthcare services and the emerging medical technology sector.

Jie has a BS in Finance from the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut.

Kate Baquis

Associate

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KateBaquis

Kate Baquis, Associate, provides support in the development of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in research and data analysis to identify trends affecting life sciences companies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kate was a Research Assistant at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Institute for Global Tobacco Control. She also served as a Research Intern at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, where she investigated the use of social media for smoking cessation.

Kate has a BS in Public Health from Tulane University and is an MSPH candidate in Health Policy and Management at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Baquis

Kate

Associate

Kate Baquis, Associate, provides support in the development of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in research and data analysis to identify trends affecting life sciences companies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kate was a Research Assistant at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Institute for Global Tobacco Control. She also served as a Research Intern at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, where she investigated the use of social media for smoking cessation.

Kate has a BS in Public Health from Tulane University and is an MSPH candidate in Health Policy and Management at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Kate Barker

Associate

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Kate Barker

Kate Barker, Associate, provides support in the development and generation of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in research and data analysis to identify trends affecting life sciences companies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kate was an intern with both the San Diego County Childhood Obesity Initiative, supporting the program through communications, research and outreach; and at the Health Education Center of UC Irvine, coordinating programs, volunteers, and campus and community leadership in support of national health education initiatives.

Kate holds a BA in Public Health Policy from the University of California, Irvine.

Barker

Kate

Associate

Kate Barker, Associate, provides support in the development and generation of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in research and data analysis to identify trends affecting life sciences companies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kate was an intern with both the San Diego County Childhood Obesity Initiative, supporting the program through communications, research and outreach; and at the Health Education Center of UC Irvine, coordinating programs, volunteers, and campus and community leadership in support of national health education initiatives.

Kate holds a BA in Public Health Policy from the University of California, Irvine.

Rebecca Bergena

Associate

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RebeccaBergena

Rebecca Bergena, Associate, provides development support and lead generation of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in research and policy analysis to analyze policy changes and trends affecting life sciences companies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Rebecca was a Resource Coordinator and Patient Advocate for Health Leads, researching resources for low-income patients and assisting clients in accessing services. Rebecca also served as a Research Intern in Howard University’s Laboratory of Brain Aging and Neurodegeneration, supporting Alzheimer’s research.

Rebecca holds an AB in Government from Harvard University.

Bergena

Rebecca

Associate

Rebecca Bergena, Associate, provides development support and lead generation of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in research and policy analysis to analyze policy changes and trends affecting life sciences companies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Rebecca was a Resource Coordinator and Patient Advocate for Health Leads, researching resources for low-income patients and assisting clients in accessing services. Rebecca also served as a Research Intern in Howard University’s Laboratory of Brain Aging and Neurodegeneration, supporting Alzheimer’s research.

Rebecca holds an AB in Government from Harvard University.

Ashley Bergstrom

Manager

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AshleyBergstrom

Ashley Bergstrom, Manager, supports clients within the Life Sciences practice. She applies her background in health policy and government affairs to advise life sciences clients on market access, product commercialization, reimbursement policy and the policy implications of health care reform. Ashley has expertise in account management within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector.

Prior to joining Avalere, Ashley served as Key Account Manager at Bloomberg Government advising clients within the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, payer, provider and device sectors.

Ashley holds a BA in Government from Skidmore. She serves as President of the Bergstrom Foundation.

Bergstrom

Ashley

Manager

Ashley Bergstrom, Manager, supports clients within the Life Sciences practice. She applies her background in health policy and government affairs to advise life sciences clients on market access, product commercialization, reimbursement policy and the policy implications of health care reform. Ashley has expertise in account management within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector.

Prior to joining Avalere, Ashley served as Key Account Manager at Bloomberg Government advising clients within the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, payer, provider and device sectors.

Ashley holds a BA in Government from Skidmore. She serves as President of the Bergstrom Foundation.

Adam Borden

Director

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AdamBorden

Adam Borden, Director, advises clients on reimbursement and product commercialization for drugs, medical devices, and laboratory tests. Adam also has special expertise in CPT® and HCPCS coding, physician payment, and molecular diagnostics.

Prior to joining Avalere, Adam served as a Senior Manager of Technology and Reimbursement at the American Gastroenterological Association and worked in financial and education administration at both Georgetown University Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

Adam has a BA in History from Rutgers University and a MHA from A.T. Still University of Health Sciences.

Borden

Adam

Director

Adam Borden, Director, advises clients on reimbursement and product commercialization for drugs, medical devices, and laboratory tests. Adam also has special expertise in CPT® and HCPCS coding, physician payment, and molecular diagnostics.

Prior to joining Avalere, Adam served as a Senior Manager of Technology and Reimbursement at the American Gastroenterological Association and worked in financial and education administration at both Georgetown University Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

Adam has a BA in History from Rutgers University and a MHA from A.T. Still University of Health Sciences.

Joseph Boswell

Vice President

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JosephBoswell

Joseph Boswell, Vice President of Business Development, works with healthcare companies to understand the challenges they are facing, and advises them on the solutions Avalere can deliver. Joseph has special expertise in the pharmaceutical and medical device and diagnostic industries, specifically in sales, marketing, and training.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joseph served as a Director of Strategic Alliances and as a Field Sales Director for Johnson & Johnson. He has worked across a wide array of therapeutic areas, including diabetes, cardiovascular, psychiatry, women’s health, obesity, and arthritis.

Joseph has a BA in History from the University of California at Los Angeles and a Certificate in Strategic Alliances from Wharton at the University of Pennsylvania. He is a Certified Instructional Designer.

Boswell

Joseph

Vice President

Joseph Boswell, Vice President of Business Development, works with healthcare companies to understand the challenges they are facing, and advises them on the solutions Avalere can deliver. Joseph has special expertise in the pharmaceutical and medical device and diagnostic industries, specifically in sales, marketing, and training.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joseph served as a Director of Strategic Alliances and as a Field Sales Director for Johnson & Johnson. He has worked across a wide array of therapeutic areas, including diabetes, cardiovascular, psychiatry, women’s health, obesity, and arthritis.

Joseph has a BA in History from the University of California at Los Angeles and a Certificate in Strategic Alliances from Wharton at the University of Pennsylvania. He is a Certified Instructional Designer.

Joel Bowen

Senior Associate

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JoelBowen

Joel Bowen, Senior Associate, Technology Support, assists in overseeing the internal operations of Avalere’s IT systems and help desk requests in his role on the desktop support team. Joel also has special expertise in wireless communications, computer hardware and Windows server.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joel served as an IT Operations Sr. Help Desk Technician and Server Admin for CQ Roll Call Inc., supporting the Roll Call and Economist Group staff. Joel is an IT tech with 10 years of experience.

Joel has a B.S. in International Business from American University.

Bowen

Joel

Senior Associate

Joel Bowen, Senior Associate, Technology Support, assists in overseeing the internal operations of Avalere’s IT systems and help desk requests in his role on the desktop support team. Joel also has special expertise in wireless communications, computer hardware and Windows server.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joel served as an IT Operations Sr. Help Desk Technician and Server Admin for CQ Roll Call Inc., supporting the Roll Call and Economist Group staff. Joel is an IT tech with 10 years of experience.

Joel has a B.S. in International Business from American University.

Nicole Braccio

Fellow

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NicoleBraccio

Nicole Braccio, Fellow, advises clients on FDA regulatory and policy strategy. She applies her background in pharmacy and medical communications to advise clients on regulatory science as well as track updates in policy and healthcare reform. Nicole has direct clinical experience gained from a variety of patient interactions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nicole was a Pharmacist with Target Pharmacy, leading a team of pharmacists and technicians to ensure prescriptions were processed accurately while providing effective clinical care. She currently maintains certifications in immunizations and CPR/BLS for Healthcare Providers. She supported the launch of several pilot programs which notably included implementation of medication therapy management and Target’s Specialty Pharmacy to increase patient access to specialty drugs by incorporating community outreach.

Nicole has a Doctor of Pharmacy from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. She is a Registered Pharmacist in New York and New Jersey.

Braccio

Nicole

Fellow

Nicole Braccio, Fellow, advises clients on FDA regulatory and policy strategy. She applies her background in pharmacy and medical communications to advise clients on regulatory science as well as track updates in policy and healthcare reform. Nicole has direct clinical experience gained from a variety of patient interactions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nicole was a Pharmacist with Target Pharmacy, leading a team of pharmacists and technicians to ensure prescriptions were processed accurately while providing effective clinical care. She currently maintains certifications in immunizations and CPR/BLS for Healthcare Providers. She supported the launch of several pilot programs which notably included implementation of medication therapy management and Target’s Specialty Pharmacy to increase patient access to specialty drugs by incorporating community outreach.

Nicole has a Doctor of Pharmacy from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. She is a Registered Pharmacist in New York and New Jersey.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kelly worked at the Health Assistance Partnership and as a consultant for the ECRI Institute.

Kelly has a BS in Biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and both a MPH in Health Promotion and Graduate Certificate in Health Policy from the George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kelly worked at the Health Assistance Partnership and as a consultant for the ECRI Institute.

Kelly has a BS in Biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and both a MPH in Health Promotion and Graduate Certificate in Health Policy from the George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services.

Hillary Bray

Senior Associate

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HillaryBray

Hillary Bray, Senior Associate, advises Avalere clients on the Affordable Care Act and federal health policy. Hillary has particular expertise in federal budget issues and the impact of sequestration, as well as exchange benefit designs and care for HIV/AIDS patients.

Prior to joining Avalere, Hillary served as a Graduate Policy Intern at Health and Medicine Policy Research Group. She also was a Graduate Erikson Fellow at the University of Chicago with Access Community Health Network.

Hillary has a dual BA in Political Science and History from The College of William & Mary and an AM from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration with a concentration in Health Policy.

Bray

Hillary

Senior Associate

Hillary Bray, Senior Associate, advises Avalere clients on the Affordable Care Act and federal health policy. Hillary has particular expertise in federal budget issues and the impact of sequestration, as well as exchange benefit designs and care for HIV/AIDS patients.

Prior to joining Avalere, Hillary served as a Graduate Policy Intern at Health and Medicine Policy Research Group. She also was a Graduate Erikson Fellow at the University of Chicago with Access Community Health Network.

Hillary has a dual BA in Political Science and History from The College of William & Mary and an AM from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration with a concentration in Health Policy.

Prior to joining Avalere, Leigh Ann was a Director of Managed Care Marketing at Abbott Pharmaceuticals. Her work spans public and primary payers as well as both primary care and specialty products. Leigh Ann is a frequent speaker on accountable care organizations, payment and delivery reform and specialty pharmaceuticals/specialty pharmacy. She serves on the Duke University/Fuqua Health Care Alumni Advisory Board and is a committee member for the National Association of Specialty Pharmacy (NASP).

Leigh Ann has a BS in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a MBA in Health Sector Management from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Prior to joining Avalere, Leigh Ann was a Director of Managed Care Marketing at Abbott Pharmaceuticals. Her work spans public and primary payers as well as both primary care and specialty products. Leigh Ann is a frequent speaker on accountable care organizations, payment and delivery reform and specialty pharmaceuticals/specialty pharmacy. She serves on the Duke University/Fuqua Health Care Alumni Advisory Board and is a committee member for the National Association of Specialty Pharmacy (NASP).

Leigh Ann has a BS in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a MBA in Health Sector Management from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Michelle Bruno

Senior Manager

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MichelleBruno

Michelle Bruno, Senior Manager, advises clients on developments and trends in evidence-based medicine, healthcare quality improvement, and performance measurement related to different therapeutic areas and clinical practices. Michelle also has expertise in qualitative research design and tool development for quality improvement implementation.

Prior to Avalere, Michelle was a Senior Health Care Quality Analyst at the American College of Cardiology and a Senior Program Associate at The National Academies, Institute of Medicine.

Michelle has a BA in Government and French from the University of Notre Dame and a MPP with concentrations in Health Policy and Public and Non-Profit Management from Georgetown University.

Bruno

Michelle

Senior Manager

Michelle Bruno, Senior Manager, advises clients on developments and trends in evidence-based medicine, healthcare quality improvement, and performance measurement related to different therapeutic areas and clinical practices. Michelle also has expertise in qualitative research design and tool development for quality improvement implementation.

Prior to Avalere, Michelle was a Senior Health Care Quality Analyst at the American College of Cardiology and a Senior Program Associate at The National Academies, Institute of Medicine.

Michelle has a BA in Government and French from the University of Notre Dame and a MPP with concentrations in Health Policy and Public and Non-Profit Management from Georgetown University.

Carrie Williams Bullock

Director

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Carrie WilliamsBullock

Carrie Williams Bullock, Director in Avalere’s Reimbursement and Product Commercialization Services practice, advises clients on strategic and tactical issues throughout the lifecycle of pharmaceuticals and medical devices, with particular insight into the impact of regulatory and legislative changes related to Medicare payment policy.

Prior to rejoining Avalere, Carrie served at CMS for six years, and eventually became deputy director of the Division of Outpatient Care. She first worked as an analyst at CMS specializing in the development of payment policies for imaging services, implantable medical devices, blood and blood products, and evaluation and management services (including observation care). Before CMS and her first Avalere experience, Carrie was a Research Associate at Covance Health Economics and Outcomes Services Inc.

Carrie has a BA in Religious Studies from the University of Virginia and a MSPH in Health Policy and Management from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Bullock

Carrie Williams

Director

Carrie Williams Bullock, Director in Avalere’s Reimbursement and Product Commercialization Services practice, advises clients on strategic and tactical issues throughout the lifecycle of pharmaceuticals and medical devices, with particular insight into the impact of regulatory and legislative changes related to Medicare payment policy.

Prior to rejoining Avalere, Carrie served at CMS for six years, and eventually became deputy director of the Division of Outpatient Care. She first worked as an analyst at CMS specializing in the development of payment policies for imaging services, implantable medical devices, blood and blood products, and evaluation and management services (including observation care). Before CMS and her first Avalere experience, Carrie was a Research Associate at Covance Health Economics and Outcomes Services Inc.

Carrie has a BA in Religious Studies from the University of Virginia and a MSPH in Health Policy and Management from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Wayne Cancro

Vice President

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WayneCancro

Wayne Cancro, Vice President, Avalere Communications, leads the payer marketing efforts for Life Sciences customers focusing on the development of cross-brand and above-brand programs, strategies and tactics.

Prior to Avalere, Wayne spent over two decades in the pharmaceutical industry working for Lederle, Wyeth and Pfizer in various sales and marketing roles, including District Sales Manager, Regional Business Director and Group Product Director on both branded and above brand payer marketing positions. Wayne is a Desert Storm Veteran and served as an Officer in the United States Army stationed in Hawaii.

Wayne has an MBA from Chaminade University and a BS from the United States Military Academy.

Cancro

Wayne

Vice President

Wayne Cancro, Vice President, Avalere Communications, leads the payer marketing efforts for Life Sciences customers focusing on the development of cross-brand and above-brand programs, strategies and tactics.

Prior to Avalere, Wayne spent over two decades in the pharmaceutical industry working for Lederle, Wyeth and Pfizer in various sales and marketing roles, including District Sales Manager, Regional Business Director and Group Product Director on both branded and above brand payer marketing positions. Wayne is a Desert Storm Veteran and served as an Officer in the United States Army stationed in Hawaii.

Wayne has an MBA from Chaminade University and a BS from the United States Military Academy.

Trinh Cao

Senior Manager

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TrinhCao

Trinh Cao, Senior Manager, advises internal clients on project management processes and IT application development. Trinh also has experience in locating and managing business partners for project work.

Prior to joining Avalere, Trinh served as a Technical Project Manager for Aristotle International, Inc. and as a Project Manager for Excelacom, Inc. Trinh has also worked as an independent IT consultant for various application development firms.

Trinh has a BS in Information Technology/Finance from the University of Maryland at College Park.

Cao

Trinh

Senior Manager

Trinh Cao, Senior Manager, advises internal clients on project management processes and IT application development. Trinh also has experience in locating and managing business partners for project work.

Prior to joining Avalere, Trinh served as a Technical Project Manager for Aristotle International, Inc. and as a Project Manager for Excelacom, Inc. Trinh has also worked as an independent IT consultant for various application development firms.

Trinh has a BS in Information Technology/Finance from the University of Maryland at College Park.

Elizabeth Carpenter

Vice President

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Elizabeth Carpenter

Elizabeth Carpenter, Vice President, helps clients anticipate the impact of regulations and legislation on business strategy. Specifically, Elizabeth focuses on issues related to the coverage expansions included as part of the Affordable Care Act, including health insurance exchanges, insurance market reforms and the Medicaid expansion. In particular, she has experience helping insurance carriers, private exchanges, technology vendors and states navigate the short- and long-term market shifts created by the law.

Prior to joining Avalere, Elizabeth was a Senior Advisor in the Health Policy practice at McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP and the Associate Policy Director for the Health Policy Program at the New America Foundation. Previously, she served on both the legislative and campaign staffs of Senator Lincoln Chafee (RI).

Elizabeth has a BA in Political Science from Brown University.

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Carpenter

Elizabeth

Vice President

Elizabeth Carpenter, Vice President, helps clients anticipate the impact of regulations and legislation on business strategy. Specifically, Elizabeth focuses on issues related to the coverage expansions included as part of the Affordable Care Act, including health insurance exchanges, insurance market reforms and the Medicaid expansion. In particular, she has experience helping insurance carriers, private exchanges, technology vendors and states navigate the short- and long-term market shifts created by the law.

Prior to joining Avalere, Elizabeth was a Senior Advisor in the Health Policy practice at McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP and the Associate Policy Director for the Health Policy Program at the New America Foundation. Previously, she served on both the legislative and campaign staffs of Senator Lincoln Chafee (RI).

Prior to joining Avalere, Robert sourced and diligenced investments for the private equity firm Welsh Carson Anderson and Stowe, and also served as Senior Vice President at Private Health Management, marketing specialized health services to hedge funds and private equity firms. Robert has also led the development of several technology-enabled service businesses.

Robert has an MBA from Yale University and a BA in Economics from Bucknell University.

Prior to joining Avalere, Robert sourced and diligenced investments for the private equity firm Welsh Carson Anderson and Stowe, and also served as Senior Vice President at Private Health Management, marketing specialized health services to hedge funds and private equity firms. Robert has also led the development of several technology-enabled service businesses.

Robert has an MBA from Yale University and a BA in Economics from Bucknell University.

Mathew Chase

Vice President

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Mathew Chase

Mathew Chase, Vice President, leads Avalere’s information technology efforts providing strategic direction to its businesses in the delivery of technology solutions, working to coordinate and manage Avalere’s cross-company technology initiatives, and overseeing support of the firm.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mathew served as Chief Information Officer at the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC). He led all information and technology operations and strategy efforts since the inception of this startup legislative agency reporting to the U.S. Congress. Preceding that, Mathew served as global Information Technology Operations Manager for Cirque du Soleil, managing the technology operations of this multinational entertainment company. He has a wealth of experience in architecting, deploying and managing technology solutions for government, multinational, and startup companies.

Mathew holds a BS in Decision Sciences and Management Information Systems from George Mason University.

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Chase

Mathew

Vice President

Mathew Chase, Vice President, leads Avalere’s information technology efforts providing strategic direction to its businesses in the delivery of technology solutions, working to coordinate and manage Avalere’s cross-company technology initiatives, and overseeing support of the firm.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mathew served as Chief Information Officer at the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC). He led all information and technology operations and strategy efforts since the inception of this startup legislative agency reporting to the U.S. Congress. Preceding that, Mathew served as global Information Technology Operations Manager for Cirque du Soleil, managing the technology operations of this multinational entertainment company. He has a wealth of experience in architecting, deploying and managing technology solutions for government, multinational, and startup companies.

Mathew holds a BS in Decision Sciences and Management Information Systems from George Mason University.

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Danny Chiriaco

Manager

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Danny Chiriaco

Danny Chiriaco, Account Manager, Product Sales, advises clients in the hospital, payer and provider sectors on the strategic use of Avalere’s business intelligence products. He applies his background in healthcare and business solutions to educate clients on the use of Vantage Care Positioning System™ to achieve strategic objectives. Danny has worked in many different areas of the healthcare industry and applies his expertise and unique understanding of the industry to the specific needs of Avalere’s clients.

Prior to joining Avalere, Danny was an Account Executive with Clements Worldwide, advising clients on international risk exposure and deepening the company’s relationships in key customer sectors.

Danny has a BA from the University of Maryland.

Chiriaco

Danny

Manager

Danny Chiriaco, Account Manager, Product Sales, advises clients in the hospital, payer and provider sectors on the strategic use of Avalere’s business intelligence products. He applies his background in healthcare and business solutions to educate clients on the use of Vantage Care Positioning System™ to achieve strategic objectives. Danny has worked in many different areas of the healthcare industry and applies his expertise and unique understanding of the industry to the specific needs of Avalere’s clients.

Prior to joining Avalere, Danny was an Account Executive with Clements Worldwide, advising clients on international risk exposure and deepening the company’s relationships in key customer sectors.

Sung Hee Choe

Vice President

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Sung HeeChoe

Sung Hee Choe, Vice President, oversees Avalere’s 360 research series, which provides clients with analysis, insights, and educational resources related to developments and emerging trends in healthcare. In this role, she builds on her extensive experience advising clients on healthcare policy, public and private payer trends, comparative effectiveness research, and patient engagement.

Prior to joining Avalere, Sung Hee spent 10 years in the financial services industry. Most recently, she served as Vice President at Bank of New York Asset Management and at First Republic Investment Management, where she analyzed healthcare sector equities to identify investment opportunities.

Sung Hee has a BA in English and Economics from Mount Holyoke College. She is a CFA® charterholder.

Choe

Sung Hee

Vice President

Sung Hee Choe, Vice President, oversees Avalere’s 360 research series, which provides clients with analysis, insights, and educational resources related to developments and emerging trends in healthcare. In this role, she builds on her extensive experience advising clients on healthcare policy, public and private payer trends, comparative effectiveness research, and patient engagement.

Prior to joining Avalere, Sung Hee spent 10 years in the financial services industry. Most recently, she served as Vice President at Bank of New York Asset Management and at First Republic Investment Management, where she analyzed healthcare sector equities to identify investment opportunities.

Sung Hee has a BA in English and Economics from Mount Holyoke College. She is a CFA® charterholder.

David Colon-Margolies

Associate

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DavidColon-Margolies

David Colon-Margolies, Associate, advises life sciences companies on syndicated research programs and products, specifically focusing on helping his clients to optimally utilize such research offerings. He applies his background in business development and non-profit fundraising to Avalere’s growing syndication efforts.

Prior to joining Avalere, David served as a liaison in the American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s Speakers Bureau and as the Social Media and Business Development Manager at Tour Smart Inc.

David has a BA from the George Washington University.

Colon-Margolies

David

Associate

David Colon-Margolies, Associate, advises life sciences companies on syndicated research programs and products, specifically focusing on helping his clients to optimally utilize such research offerings. He applies his background in business development and non-profit fundraising to Avalere’s growing syndication efforts.

Prior to joining Avalere, David served as a liaison in the American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s Speakers Bureau and as the Social Media and Business Development Manager at Tour Smart Inc.

Before joining Avalere, Mary held operations, compliance, and member advocacy roles at Presbyterian Health Plan in New Mexico. Prior to Presbyterian, Mary was a Field Representative and Constituent Liaison in the Office of Rep. Heather Wilson (R-NM).

Mary graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of New Mexico with BAs in Political Science and Psychology.

Before joining Avalere, Mary held operations, compliance, and member advocacy roles at Presbyterian Health Plan in New Mexico. Prior to Presbyterian, Mary was a Field Representative and Constituent Liaison in the Office of Rep. Heather Wilson (R-NM).

Mary graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of New Mexico with BAs in Political Science and Psychology.

Stacy Critzer

Senior Vice President

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StacyCritzer

Stacy Critzer, Senior Vice President, Human Resources (HR), partners with our leaders in ensuring organizational effectiveness and excellence. She manages and leads the firm’s efforts in attracting and developing talent through our robust recruitment programs and continued professional development offerings.

Prior to joining Avalere, Stacy was the Director of Human Resources at AOL, Inc. Stacy's background in HR leadership includes for-profit, nonprofit, academic, online digital media, traditional print media, and technology industries specializing in providing strategic vision and counsel as well as driving best practices in talent management and acquisition and organizational development in high-performance organizations.

Stacy has a BS in Business Management from Johns Hopkins University and PHR certification in Human Resources.

Critzer

Stacy

Senior Vice President

Stacy Critzer, Senior Vice President, Human Resources (HR), partners with our leaders in ensuring organizational effectiveness and excellence. She manages and leads the firm’s efforts in attracting and developing talent through our robust recruitment programs and continued professional development offerings.

Prior to joining Avalere, Stacy was the Director of Human Resources at AOL, Inc. Stacy's background in HR leadership includes for-profit, nonprofit, academic, online digital media, traditional print media, and technology industries specializing in providing strategic vision and counsel as well as driving best practices in talent management and acquisition and organizational development in high-performance organizations.

Stacy has a BS in Business Management from Johns Hopkins University and PHR certification in Human Resources.

Margery has extensive experience with private company investments, having been a high yield healthcare analyst – and, prior to that, an equity analyst – for 20-plus years on Wall Street. Her Institutional Investor all-star research career included stints at Lehman Brothers, Kidder, Peabody, and PaineWebber, where she brought dozens of transactions to firm commitment committees and also served as a member of Lehman Brother's Global High Yield and Leveraged Loan Commitment committees.

Margery has an AB in Applied Mathematics from Harvard University and a MS in Management with a concentration in Finance and Economics from the Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She also sits on the board of a publicly traded post-acute care company.

Margery has extensive experience with private company investments, having been a high yield healthcare analyst – and, prior to that, an equity analyst – for 20-plus years on Wall Street. Her Institutional Investor all-star research career included stints at Lehman Brothers, Kidder, Peabody, and PaineWebber, where she brought dozens of transactions to firm commitment committees and also served as a member of Lehman Brother's Global High Yield and Leveraged Loan Commitment committees.

Margery has an AB in Applied Mathematics from Harvard University and a MS in Management with a concentration in Finance and Economics from the Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She also sits on the board of a publicly traded post-acute care company.

David Curameng

Analyst

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DavidCurameng

David Curameng, Research Analyst, provides support on the production of deliverables and other materials to members of the Reimbursement practice. David provides strong support in ad-hoc research to identify key information for project teams. In addition, he has special expertise in communication and has developed and maintained relationships with various healthcare contacts.

Prior to joining Avalere, David served as an Assistant Manager for Häagen-Dazs, conducted social media for Maple Jam Music Group, and interned for OTM Partners, LLC/BrandMind Group, Inc.

David has a BS in Business from Wake Forest University.

Curameng

David

Analyst

David Curameng, Research Analyst, provides support on the production of deliverables and other materials to members of the Reimbursement practice. David provides strong support in ad-hoc research to identify key information for project teams. In addition, he has special expertise in communication and has developed and maintained relationships with various healthcare contacts.

Prior to joining Avalere, David served as an Assistant Manager for Häagen-Dazs, conducted social media for Maple Jam Music Group, and interned for OTM Partners, LLC/BrandMind Group, Inc.

Prior to joining Avalere, Emily worked at the George Washington University Hospital and as a research assistant in GW’s School of Public Health and Health Services, Department of Health Policy. In this capacity, she studied the impact of state policies and Medicaid’s Home and Community-Based Services Program on residential settings for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Formerly, she completed her Master’s Practicum at the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, as well as numerous internships at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services—Office of Inspector General, American Public Health Association, Let’s Move! Campaign and in the office of U.S. Senator Jack Reed (RI).

Emily earned an advanced dual-degree, with a BS in Public Health and a MPH in Health Policy from George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude and Delta Omega.

Prior to joining Avalere, Emily worked at the George Washington University Hospital and as a research assistant in GW’s School of Public Health and Health Services, Department of Health Policy. In this capacity, she studied the impact of state policies and Medicaid’s Home and Community-Based Services Program on residential settings for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Formerly, she completed her Master’s Practicum at the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, as well as numerous internships at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services—Office of Inspector General, American Public Health Association, Let’s Move! Campaign and in the office of U.S. Senator Jack Reed (RI).

Emily earned an advanced dual-degree, with a BS in Public Health and a MPH in Health Policy from George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude and Delta Omega.

Prior to joining Avalere, he served as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board and Program Coordinator with Terosin Group, Inc. and as a Visiting Scientist at the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Daniel has a BS in Biological Sciences, an MA in Molecular Cellular Biology, and a PhD in Pharmacology from the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Prior to joining Avalere, he served as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board and Program Coordinator with Terosin Group, Inc. and as a Visiting Scientist at the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Daniel has a BS in Biological Sciences, an MA in Molecular Cellular Biology, and a PhD in Pharmacology from the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Caitlin Delaney

Senior Associate

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Caitlin Delaney

Caitlin Delaney, Senior Associate, provides research and analytic support to providers, with a particular emphasis on payment and delivery reform, accountable care organizations, and telehealth. She contributes to reports focused on care coordination opportunities, post-acute and acute care partnerships, and hospital industry trends.

Prior to joining Avalere, Caitlin worked at the Advisory Board Company. She has also worked at Project Sunshine, a non-profit providing recreational and educational activities to hospitalized children.

Caitlin has BAs in Economics and Spanish from Bucknell University.

Delaney

Caitlin

Senior Associate

Caitlin Delaney, Senior Associate, provides research and analytic support to providers, with a particular emphasis on payment and delivery reform, accountable care organizations, and telehealth. She contributes to reports focused on care coordination opportunities, post-acute and acute care partnerships, and hospital industry trends.

Prior to joining Avalere, Caitlin worked at the Advisory Board Company. She has also worked at Project Sunshine, a non-profit providing recreational and educational activities to hospitalized children.

Carole Dembek

Director

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CaroleDembek

Carole Dembek, Director, advises clients on health economic and evidence generation strategies for pharmaceuticals, biologics and medical devices. Carole works with clients to establish evidence-based value propositions and market access strategies for new and existing products.

Prior to joining Avalere, Carole was Associate Director in health economics and global market access at Biogen Idec and Genzyme. Carole has also held positions in Reimbursement and Outcomes Research at Boston Scientific and has worked at Partners Healthcare System and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts.

Carole has a BS in Biology from the University of Michigan and a MS in Health Policy and Management from the Harvard University School of Public Health.

Dembek

Carole

Director

Carole Dembek, Director, advises clients on health economic and evidence generation strategies for pharmaceuticals, biologics and medical devices. Carole works with clients to establish evidence-based value propositions and market access strategies for new and existing products.

Prior to joining Avalere, Carole was Associate Director in health economics and global market access at Biogen Idec and Genzyme. Carole has also held positions in Reimbursement and Outcomes Research at Boston Scientific and has worked at Partners Healthcare System and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts.

Carole has a BS in Biology from the University of Michigan and a MS in Health Policy and Management from the Harvard University School of Public Health.

Rujul Desai

Vice President

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RujulDesai

Rujul Desai, Vice President, advises clients on market access, reimbursement, strategic contracting and regulatory solutions. He applies his unique combination of experience in specialty pharmacy, biopharma, PBM, legal and regulatory services. Rujul has special expertise working with clients to design and implement technology-enabled solutions along the patient journey and across the care coordination continuum.

Prior to joining Avalere, Rujul has held a number of leadership roles in the specialty industry, including at CVS Caremark, UCB, and Theracom. He was also the founder of a specialty hub services company supporting biopharma products. Rujul has significant health law experience, including practicing at the law firm of K&L Gates.

Rujul holds a JD from University of Houston and a BA from Rutgers University. He is a combat veteran of the Global War on Terror, U.S. Army, Medical Service Corps, Captain (Ret.).

Desai

Rujul

Vice President

Rujul Desai, Vice President, advises clients on market access, reimbursement, strategic contracting and regulatory solutions. He applies his unique combination of experience in specialty pharmacy, biopharma, PBM, legal and regulatory services. Rujul has special expertise working with clients to design and implement technology-enabled solutions along the patient journey and across the care coordination continuum.

Prior to joining Avalere, Rujul has held a number of leadership roles in the specialty industry, including at CVS Caremark, UCB, and Theracom. He was also the founder of a specialty hub services company supporting biopharma products. Rujul has significant health law experience, including practicing at the law firm of K&L Gates.

Rujul holds a JD from University of Houston and a BA from Rutgers University. He is a combat veteran of the Global War on Terror, U.S. Army, Medical Service Corps, Captain (Ret.).

Kevin Dietz

Vice President

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KevinDietz

Kevin Dietz, Vice President, provides SAS programming support within our Data Analytics practice focusing on Medicare post-acute care payment and long-term care financing policy. He analyzes Medicare policy changes and health reform proposals in a variety of settings, including inpatient, skilled nursing facilities, hospice, and home health. He also models the financial impact of Medicare payment policies and health reform proposals, such as proposed out-of-pocket caps for prescription drugs in a new insurance benefit and proposed integrated care model for low-income seniors.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kevin worked on the healthcare team at the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Prior to GAO, Kevin served as a programmer and consultant for statistical consulting, marketing, and economic research organizations.

Kevin has a BA in Economics and a BS in Accounting from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Dietz

Kevin

Vice President

Kevin Dietz, Vice President, provides SAS programming support within our Data Analytics practice focusing on Medicare post-acute care payment and long-term care financing policy. He analyzes Medicare policy changes and health reform proposals in a variety of settings, including inpatient, skilled nursing facilities, hospice, and home health. He also models the financial impact of Medicare payment policies and health reform proposals, such as proposed out-of-pocket caps for prescription drugs in a new insurance benefit and proposed integrated care model for low-income seniors.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kevin worked on the healthcare team at the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Prior to GAO, Kevin served as a programmer and consultant for statistical consulting, marketing, and economic research organizations.

Kevin has a BA in Economics and a BS in Accounting from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Prior to joining Avalere, Sarah served as a Health Care Policy Studies Research intern at the Cato Institute, Program Assistant at the Brookings Institution, and as a Paralegal for McGuireWoods LLP and Goodell, DeVries, Leech & Dann, LLP.

Sarah has a BA in History from the University of Richmond and a MHS in Health Policy from the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. Sarah is a member of Health Technology Assessment International and a frequent presenter at Johns Hopkins University Alumni events.

Prior to joining Avalere, Sarah served as a Health Care Policy Studies Research intern at the Cato Institute, Program Assistant at the Brookings Institution, and as a Paralegal for McGuireWoods LLP and Goodell, DeVries, Leech & Dann, LLP.

Sarah has a BA in History from the University of Richmond and a MHS in Health Policy from the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. Sarah is a member of Health Technology Assessment International and a frequent presenter at Johns Hopkins University Alumni events.

Andrea Douglas

Director

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AndreaDouglas

Andrea Douglas, Director, addresses the needs of life science clients by advising them on issues related to how medical innovation is assessed and valued in the health care system, evidence communication, advocacy strategies and stakeholder engagement. Partnering with subject matter experts throughout Avalere, she provides counsel that enables life science clients to effectively engage while perusing a unified strategic direction.

Prior to joining Avalere, Andrea worked in both the federal and state government affairs departments at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) where she focused on the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, communicating the value of life science innovation, comparative effectiveness research, Medicaid and Medicare coverage policy and stakeholder engagement.

Andrea has an MA in Public Health and a BA from the George Washington University.

Douglas

Andrea

Director

Andrea Douglas, Director, addresses the needs of life science clients by advising them on issues related to how medical innovation is assessed and valued in the health care system, evidence communication, advocacy strategies and stakeholder engagement. Partnering with subject matter experts throughout Avalere, she provides counsel that enables life science clients to effectively engage while perusing a unified strategic direction.

Prior to joining Avalere, Andrea worked in both the federal and state government affairs departments at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) where she focused on the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, communicating the value of life science innovation, comparative effectiveness research, Medicaid and Medicare coverage policy and stakeholder engagement.

Andrea has an MA in Public Health and a BA from the George Washington University.

Todd Drexler

Director

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ToddDrexler

Todd Drexler, Director, CRM, partners with senior leadership, Sales and Marketing to design and deliver tools that enable Avalere to effectively execute on marketing and sales campaigns. He applies his background in the healthcare industry with web and cloud technologies, database design and customer focused user experience to lead customer relationship management efforts and guide Avalere to the best fit sales and marketing solutions. Todd has special expertise in cloud based technology and a wealth of experience in healthcare and pharmaceutical distribution systems.

Prior to joining Avalere, Todd was a Senior Consultant at Buan Consulting, developing Salesforce.com integrations with client websites and other data systems and managing large data migration projects. Prior to joining Buan Consulting, Todd worked at Oncology Supply Company/International Oncology Network, where he analyzed business and end user needs to develop requirements design documentation and increase efficiencies using Salesforce.com and web based applications.

Todd has a BS from Troy State University.

Drexler

Todd

Director

Todd Drexler, Director, CRM, partners with senior leadership, Sales and Marketing to design and deliver tools that enable Avalere to effectively execute on marketing and sales campaigns. He applies his background in the healthcare industry with web and cloud technologies, database design and customer focused user experience to lead customer relationship management efforts and guide Avalere to the best fit sales and marketing solutions. Todd has special expertise in cloud based technology and a wealth of experience in healthcare and pharmaceutical distribution systems.

Prior to joining Avalere, Todd was a Senior Consultant at Buan Consulting, developing Salesforce.com integrations with client websites and other data systems and managing large data migration projects. Prior to joining Buan Consulting, Todd worked at Oncology Supply Company/International Oncology Network, where he analyzed business and end user needs to develop requirements design documentation and increase efficiencies using Salesforce.com and web based applications.

Todd has a BS from Troy State University.

Zach Drouin

Project Manager

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ZachDrouin

Zach Drouin, IT Business Systems Administrator, advises internal clients on end-user computer programs, technologies, and applications. Zach also has special expertise in identifying and recommending new technologies and applications that will improve productivity and reduce costs.

Prior to joining Avalere, Zach served as an Assistant Event Planner at National Events Incorporated and Assistant to the Director at Jewish Family Services of Sacramento.

Zach has a BA in International Affairs with a concentration in Global Public Health from George Washington University.

Drouin

Zach

Project Manager

Zach Drouin, IT Business Systems Administrator, advises internal clients on end-user computer programs, technologies, and applications. Zach also has special expertise in identifying and recommending new technologies and applications that will improve productivity and reduce costs.

Prior to joining Avalere, Zach served as an Assistant Event Planner at National Events Incorporated and Assistant to the Director at Jewish Family Services of Sacramento.

Zach has a BA in International Affairs with a concentration in Global Public Health from George Washington University.

Ed Drozd

Vice President

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EdDrozd

Ed Drozd, Vice President, is an expert in statistical methods, program evaluation, and quality measurement and benchmarking in our Data Analytics practice. He measures the effect of interventions and policy changes on healthcare utilization, quality, and financial performance tailored to fit any need, including public reporting, demonstrating value, and peer-reviewed publication. He also designs interventions in ways that can be measured in a straightforward manner.

Drozd

Ed

Vice President

Ed Drozd, Vice President, is an expert in statistical methods, program evaluation, and quality measurement and benchmarking in our Data Analytics practice. He measures the effect of interventions and policy changes on healthcare utilization, quality, and financial performance tailored to fit any need, including public reporting, demonstrating value, and peer-reviewed publication. He also designs interventions in ways that can be measured in a straightforward manner.

Eleanor Fitall

Manager

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EleanorFitall

Eleanor Fitall, Manager, provides research and analytical support to Avalere's Evidence Translation and Implementation practice, primarily focusing on data-driven quality improvement efforts in both the public and private sectors.

Prior to joining Avalere, Eleanor interned for Galileo Analytics where she assisted in the analysis of pharmaceutical pipeline development by tracking and conducting studies on upcoming pharmaceutical research. Additionally, while serving as a Research and Marketing Assistant for the Chief Operating Officer, she conducted domestic and international market research and assisted in the development of product launch plans.

Eleanor has a dual BA in International Studies and Sociology from Emory University.

Fitall

Eleanor

Manager

Eleanor Fitall, Manager, provides research and analytical support to Avalere's Evidence Translation and Implementation practice, primarily focusing on data-driven quality improvement efforts in both the public and private sectors.

Prior to joining Avalere, Eleanor interned for Galileo Analytics where she assisted in the analysis of pharmaceutical pipeline development by tracking and conducting studies on upcoming pharmaceutical research. Additionally, while serving as a Research and Marketing Assistant for the Chief Operating Officer, she conducted domestic and international market research and assisted in the development of product launch plans.

Eleanor has a dual BA in International Studies and Sociology from Emory University.

Travounda (Trae) Foster

Executive Assistant

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Travounda (Trae)Foster

Travounda Foster, Executive Assistant, provides internal client support in the areas of scheduling, travel coordination, research and administration. She assists senior staff in the Life Sciences Business Intelligence Practice to ensure excellent client customer service and follow-up.

Travounda has over seventeen years of administrative support experience, most recently as an Administrative Assistant in the National Association of Realtors where she maintained calendars, prepared reports and assisted with the administration of the membership database.

Travounda is currently studying for a BA from the University of Maryland’s University College.

Foster

Travounda (Trae)

Executive Assistant

Travounda Foster, Executive Assistant, provides internal client support in the areas of scheduling, travel coordination, research and administration. She assists senior staff in the Life Sciences Business Intelligence Practice to ensure excellent client customer service and follow-up.

Travounda has over seventeen years of administrative support experience, most recently as an Administrative Assistant in the National Association of Realtors where she maintained calendars, prepared reports and assisted with the administration of the membership database.

Travounda is currently studying for a BA from the University of Maryland’s University College.

Miryam Frieder

Vice President

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Miryam Frieder

Miryam Frieder, Vice President, leads strategic client engagements focused on health reform, medication adherence, pharmacy benefit management, and Medicare Part D. Miryam advises clients on assessing the impact of health reform and other aspects of the policy environment to inform business decisions and policy-related activities. Her clients include health plans, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), pharmaceutical manufacturers, foundations, and associations. Recent areas of focus include designing demonstration proposals for the Center on Medicare and Medicaid Innovation as well as payment and delivery reform approaches for dual eligibles.

Prior to joining Avalere, Miryam worked at The Lewin Group where she provided strategic consulting to health plans, hospitals, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and PBMs.

Miryam has a MBA from Columbia Business School and a MPH in Health Policy from the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University. Miryam graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Wesleyan University.

Frieder

Miryam

Vice President

Miryam Frieder, Vice President, leads strategic client engagements focused on health reform, medication adherence, pharmacy benefit management, and Medicare Part D. Miryam advises clients on assessing the impact of health reform and other aspects of the policy environment to inform business decisions and policy-related activities. Her clients include health plans, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), pharmaceutical manufacturers, foundations, and associations. Recent areas of focus include designing demonstration proposals for the Center on Medicare and Medicaid Innovation as well as payment and delivery reform approaches for dual eligibles.

Prior to joining Avalere, Miryam worked at The Lewin Group where she provided strategic consulting to health plans, hospitals, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and PBMs.

Miryam has a MBA from Columbia Business School and a MPH in Health Policy from the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University. Miryam graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Wesleyan University.

Brian Fuller

Vice President

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BrianFuller

Brian Fuller, Vice President, brings over 15 years of experience and strategic support to clients in the post-acute care and long-term care settings. Brian is a leading expert on care integration and partnership development across the continuum. He is a nationally recognized expert in bundled payments and is one of only a few individuals in the US who was selected by the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) to serve as an expert panelist in application reviews for the Bundled Payment for Care Improvement initiative. He also successfully submitted applications to CMS as a healthcare provider participant and consults with hospitals and post-acute providers across the US on bundled payment participation. Brian also assists ACOs and at-risk payers formulate post-acute care networks to better integrate and manage quality and lower costs for targeted patient populations.

Prior to joining Avalere, Brian was a Vice President/Senior Consultant with Health Dimensions Group and the VP, Business Development and Planning for Brooks Health System, a not-for-profit integrated post-acute healthcare system based in Jacksonville, Florida.

Brian holds an MBA from Georgia Southern University and a BS from the University of Georgia, and is an American College of Healthcare Executives Fellow.

Fuller

Brian

Vice President

Brian Fuller, Vice President, brings over 15 years of experience and strategic support to clients in the post-acute care and long-term care settings. Brian is a leading expert on care integration and partnership development across the continuum. He is a nationally recognized expert in bundled payments and is one of only a few individuals in the US who was selected by the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) to serve as an expert panelist in application reviews for the Bundled Payment for Care Improvement initiative. He also successfully submitted applications to CMS as a healthcare provider participant and consults with hospitals and post-acute providers across the US on bundled payment participation. Brian also assists ACOs and at-risk payers formulate post-acute care networks to better integrate and manage quality and lower costs for targeted patient populations.

Prior to joining Avalere, Brian was a Vice President/Senior Consultant with Health Dimensions Group and the VP, Business Development and Planning for Brooks Health System, a not-for-profit integrated post-acute healthcare system based in Jacksonville, Florida.

Brian holds an MBA from Georgia Southern University and a BS from the University of Georgia, and is an American College of Healthcare Executives Fellow.

Nelly Ganesan

Director

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NellyGanesan

Nelly Ganesan, Director, advises clients on the implications of public reporting programs, use of quality measures, and the impact of quality improvement. Nelly also has special expertise in care models focused on CMS’ Triple Aim: Better Care, Better Health, and Lower Costs.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nelly served as a Triple Aim Program Manager at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. Nelly’s past work also highlights her interest in global and public health.

Nelly has a BS in Economics from the University of Oregon and a MPH in Epidemiology and International Health from Boston University.

Ganesan

Nelly

Director

Nelly Ganesan, Director, advises clients on the implications of public reporting programs, use of quality measures, and the impact of quality improvement. Nelly also has special expertise in care models focused on CMS’ Triple Aim: Better Care, Better Health, and Lower Costs.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nelly served as a Triple Aim Program Manager at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. Nelly’s past work also highlights her interest in global and public health.

Nelly has a BS in Economics from the University of Oregon and a MPH in Epidemiology and International Health from Boston University.

Debbie Garner

Director

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Debbie Garner

Debbie Garner is Regional Director of the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) Region for Avalere International. Debbie brings nearly 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry in the US and EMEA including positions in sales, sales management, product management, marketing, and professional services.

In particular, Debbie spent 11 years at Eli Lilly and Company, both in the US and in Israel, in senior marketing, sales management, and managed care positions in the therapeutic areas of women's health, neuroscience, neurology, and endocrinology. Most recently, she was involved in health information technology markets as the EMEA Director of Professional Services for iMDsoft, a company specializing in clinical information systems for the critical care environments of the ICU and the OR.

Debbie has a BA in History and Literature from Harvard College and a MBA in Finance and Multinational Marketing and Management from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Garner

Debbie

Director

Debbie Garner is Regional Director of the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) Region for Avalere International. Debbie brings nearly 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry in the US and EMEA including positions in sales, sales management, product management, marketing, and professional services.

In particular, Debbie spent 11 years at Eli Lilly and Company, both in the US and in Israel, in senior marketing, sales management, and managed care positions in the therapeutic areas of women's health, neuroscience, neurology, and endocrinology. Most recently, she was involved in health information technology markets as the EMEA Director of Professional Services for iMDsoft, a company specializing in clinical information systems for the critical care environments of the ICU and the OR.

Debbie has a BA in History and Literature from Harvard College and a MBA in Finance and Multinational Marketing and Management from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Priya Gaur

Senior Associate

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PriyaGaur

Priya Gaur, Senior Associate, advises clients on commercial and policy issues in response to complex developments in the evolving healthcare market. She has particular expertise in public health interventions specific to reproductive health and prenatal care.

Prior to joining Avalere, Priya served as a Financial & Legal Analyst at Kobre & Kim LLP, providing research and analysis to the firm's Financial Products & Services Litigation practice. Prior to that, she was a Fellow at Motley Rice, LLC.

Priya has an AB in Community Health from Brown University.

Gaur

Priya

Senior Associate

Priya Gaur, Senior Associate, advises clients on commercial and policy issues in response to complex developments in the evolving healthcare market. She has particular expertise in public health interventions specific to reproductive health and prenatal care.

Prior to joining Avalere, Priya served as a Financial & Legal Analyst at Kobre & Kim LLP, providing research and analysis to the firm's Financial Products & Services Litigation practice. Prior to that, she was a Fellow at Motley Rice, LLC.

Priya has an AB in Community Health from Brown University.

Laurie Gavitt-Smith

Vice President

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LaurieGavitt-Smith

Laurie Gavitt-Smith, Vice President, Marketing, partners with Avalere’s Life Sciences practices to create impactful marketing plans and campaigns that engage healthcare professionals. She combines her discipline in strategic planning and creative development as well as her experience managing award-winning campaigns to support Avalere’s suite of products and services.

Prior to joining Avalere, Laurie was Vice President of Global Marketing for The NASDAQ Stock Market, leading a multi-disciplinary team spanning continents. Working for NASDAQ most of her 20-year career, Laurie understands how to transform and position a highly regulated U.S. company into a global brand with multiple business lines offering diverse technical products and services.

Laurie has a MA from George Mason University and a BA from Pennsylvania State University. An active volunteer with Junior Achievement, she teaches financial literacy to middle school students.

Gavitt-Smith

Laurie

Vice President

Laurie Gavitt-Smith, Vice President, Marketing, partners with Avalere’s Life Sciences practices to create impactful marketing plans and campaigns that engage healthcare professionals. She combines her discipline in strategic planning and creative development as well as her experience managing award-winning campaigns to support Avalere’s suite of products and services.

Prior to joining Avalere, Laurie was Vice President of Global Marketing for The NASDAQ Stock Market, leading a multi-disciplinary team spanning continents. Working for NASDAQ most of her 20-year career, Laurie understands how to transform and position a highly regulated U.S. company into a global brand with multiple business lines offering diverse technical products and services.

Laurie has a MA from George Mason University and a BA from Pennsylvania State University. An active volunteer with Junior Achievement, she teaches financial literacy to middle school students.

Helina Gebremariam

Associate

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HelinaGebremariam

Helina Gebremariam, Associate provides support in the development and generation of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in specialty pharmaceuticals, payer policies, and payment and delivery reform. Helina has special expertise in the impact of healthcare reform on life sciences organizations.

Prior to joining Avalere, Helina was an Account Management Associate at the Advisory Board Company, supporting membership and carrying out outreach strategy to a broad range of healthcare stakeholders including pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and health plans and post-acute care organizations.

Helina has a BA from Columbia University in Biochemistry.

Gebremariam

Helina

Associate

Helina Gebremariam, Associate provides support in the development and generation of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in specialty pharmaceuticals, payer policies, and payment and delivery reform. Helina has special expertise in the impact of healthcare reform on life sciences organizations.

Prior to joining Avalere, Helina was an Account Management Associate at the Advisory Board Company, supporting membership and carrying out outreach strategy to a broad range of healthcare stakeholders including pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and health plans and post-acute care organizations.

Helina has a BA from Columbia University in Biochemistry.

Andrew Gendreau

Senior Manager

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AndrewGendreau

Andrew Gendreau, Senior Manager, provides due diligence and advisory services to private equity firms investing in the healthcare sector. His work focuses on evaluating and quantifying regulatory, reimbursement, and legislative risks to potential healthcare investments. Andrew has worked on more than 30 healthcare transactions as part of our Financial Services practice, including diligence on hospitals and post-acute providers, specialty physician practices, life sciences manufacturers, outsourced Medicaid services, and behavioral/mental health providers.

Prior to Avalere, Andrew was at Optimal Solutions Group, where he worked on large scale, randomized-trial research projects for the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Andrew has a BA in Economics from the University of Maryland and a MBA from the Robert H. Smith School of Business.

Gendreau

Andrew

Senior Manager

Andrew Gendreau, Senior Manager, provides due diligence and advisory services to private equity firms investing in the healthcare sector. His work focuses on evaluating and quantifying regulatory, reimbursement, and legislative risks to potential healthcare investments. Andrew has worked on more than 30 healthcare transactions as part of our Financial Services practice, including diligence on hospitals and post-acute providers, specialty physician practices, life sciences manufacturers, outsourced Medicaid services, and behavioral/mental health providers.

Prior to Avalere, Andrew was at Optimal Solutions Group, where he worked on large scale, randomized-trial research projects for the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Andrew has a BA in Economics from the University of Maryland and a MBA from the Robert H. Smith School of Business.

Jessica Gerber

Vice President

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JessicaGerber

Jessica L. Gerber, Vice President, advises clients on market access, product commercialization, and strategic payer planning and analysis. Jessica works with life sciences clients on engaging with both private and public payers to manage products across a wide range of care settings and disease areas.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jessica worked at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, as a consultant with Cap Gemini Ernst & Young, and as a banking officer with a predecessor of JP Morgan Chase.

Jessica has an undergraduate degree from Villanova University and a MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Gerber

Jessica

Vice President

Jessica L. Gerber, Vice President, advises clients on market access, product commercialization, and strategic payer planning and analysis. Jessica works with life sciences clients on engaging with both private and public payers to manage products across a wide range of care settings and disease areas.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jessica worked at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, as a consultant with Cap Gemini Ernst & Young, and as a banking officer with a predecessor of JP Morgan Chase.

Jessica has an undergraduate degree from Villanova University and a MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Shareef Ghanem

Senior Manager

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ShareefGhanem

Shareef Ghanem, Senior Manager, provides due diligence and advisory services to private equity firms investing in the healthcare sector. His work focuses on evaluating and quantifying regulatory, reimbursement, and legislative risks to potential healthcare investments. Shareef has worked on over 20 healthcare transactions as part of our Financial Services practice.

Prior to joining Avalere, Shareef worked as a Research Program Assistant at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. In addition, Shareef has worked as a Research Assistant at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in the cancer biology division.

Shareef has a BA in Public Health with a concentration in Social and Behavioral Interventions as well as a minor in Bioethics from Johns Hopkins University.

Ghanem

Shareef

Senior Manager

Shareef Ghanem, Senior Manager, provides due diligence and advisory services to private equity firms investing in the healthcare sector. His work focuses on evaluating and quantifying regulatory, reimbursement, and legislative risks to potential healthcare investments. Shareef has worked on over 20 healthcare transactions as part of our Financial Services practice.

Prior to joining Avalere, Shareef worked as a Research Program Assistant at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. In addition, Shareef has worked as a Research Assistant at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in the cancer biology division.

Shareef has a BA in Public Health with a concentration in Social and Behavioral Interventions as well as a minor in Bioethics from Johns Hopkins University.

Anita Gibson

Senior Manager

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Anita Gibson

Anita Gibson, Senior Manager, works with Life Sciences clients to identify strategies to best address and respond to changing market conditions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Anita was an Advisory Manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers’ Federal Practice, supporting clients in a variety of roles including strategic planning and program and project management. Prior to that, as a Senior Strategy Consultant at Computer Sciences Corporation, she provided strategic support to biotechnology, pharmaceutical and government customers.

Anita holds a MBA from the University of Virginia and a BA from Yale University. She also serves on the board of directors of Literacy Volunteers and Advocates, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing illiteracy at both an individual and community level.

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Gibson

Anita

Senior Manager

Anita Gibson, Senior Manager, works with Life Sciences clients to identify strategies to best address and respond to changing market conditions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Anita was an Advisory Manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers’ Federal Practice, supporting clients in a variety of roles including strategic planning and program and project management. Prior to that, as a Senior Strategy Consultant at Computer Sciences Corporation, she provided strategic support to biotechnology, pharmaceutical and government customers.

Anita holds a MBA from the University of Virginia and a BA from Yale University. She also serves on the board of directors of Literacy Volunteers and Advocates, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing illiteracy at both an individual and community level.

Prior to joining Avalere, Samantha was a Research Consultant for The Lewin Group, providing regulatory and policy research support for clients by developing tools to assist dual-eligible populations, conducting readiness reviews for CMS’ Financial Alignment Demonstration, and working with state health exchanges to provide operations and strategy support. Prior to that, Samantha was a Compliance Associate at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, where she supported the development of internal risk assessment strategies and reviewed hospital policies and procedures for compliance with HIPAA and other state and federal guidance.

Samantha has an MPH in Health Policy and Management from Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, a JD from the Elon University School of Law, and a BA in Political Science and Public Administration from Elon University.

Prior to joining Avalere, Samantha was a Research Consultant for The Lewin Group, providing regulatory and policy research support for clients by developing tools to assist dual-eligible populations, conducting readiness reviews for CMS’ Financial Alignment Demonstration, and working with state health exchanges to provide operations and strategy support. Prior to that, Samantha was a Compliance Associate at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, where she supported the development of internal risk assessment strategies and reviewed hospital policies and procedures for compliance with HIPAA and other state and federal guidance.

Samantha has an MPH in Health Policy and Management from Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, a JD from the Elon University School of Law, and a BA in Political Science and Public Administration from Elon University.

Joy Godette

Payroll Accountant

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JoyGodette

Joy Godette, Payroll Accountant, advises internal clients on items related to payroll, such as their bi-weekly pay, payroll taxes, and benefit setup and deductions. Joy also has experience in human resources benefits as well as testing and filing of state agencies and third-party administrators.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joy served as a Payroll Manager at Hanley Wood and as a Payroll/HRIS Coordinator for JE Robert Companies.

Joy has a BS in Administrative Systems with a minor in Marketing from Northern State University in South Dakota. She is a member of the American Payroll Association.

Godette

Joy

Payroll Accountant

Joy Godette, Payroll Accountant, advises internal clients on items related to payroll, such as their bi-weekly pay, payroll taxes, and benefit setup and deductions. Joy also has experience in human resources benefits as well as testing and filing of state agencies and third-party administrators.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joy served as a Payroll Manager at Hanley Wood and as a Payroll/HRIS Coordinator for JE Robert Companies.

Joy has a BS in Administrative Systems with a minor in Marketing from Northern State University in South Dakota. She is a member of the American Payroll Association.

Daniel Goldberg

Associate

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DanielGoldberg

Daniel Goldberg, Associate, assists clients in navigating health reform legislation and federal health policy. He applies his background in hospital administration, systems improvement and research support to guide the utilization of evidence-based practices. Daniel has specific expertise in risk-based payment models and hospital value-based purchasing in the context of the Affordable Care Act.

Prior to joining Avalere, Daniel interned on the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions providing research and legislative initiative support to Senator Harkin’s health policy team. In this role, he authored memos on congressional briefings and hearings related to health policy. He also conducted research for the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Memorial Hermann Hospital and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.

Daniel has a B.S. in Healthcare Management and Policy and a minor in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention from Georgetown University.

Goldberg

Daniel

Associate

Daniel Goldberg, Associate, assists clients in navigating health reform legislation and federal health policy. He applies his background in hospital administration, systems improvement and research support to guide the utilization of evidence-based practices. Daniel has specific expertise in risk-based payment models and hospital value-based purchasing in the context of the Affordable Care Act.

Prior to joining Avalere, Daniel interned on the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions providing research and legislative initiative support to Senator Harkin’s health policy team. In this role, he authored memos on congressional briefings and hearings related to health policy. He also conducted research for the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Memorial Hermann Hospital and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.

Daniel has a B.S. in Healthcare Management and Policy and a minor in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention from Georgetown University.

Prior to joining Avalere, Alex held leadership roles at Kaiser Permanente, the Institute of Medicine, Stockamp & Associates (now Huron Healthcare) and Inovalon. In those roles, he assessed strategic, operational, and financial opportunities for his clients and for the healthcare industry at large.

Alex has an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, an MSPH from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health, and a BA from Colgate University. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member at the Fuqua School of Business.

Prior to joining Avalere, Alex held leadership roles at Kaiser Permanente, the Institute of Medicine, Stockamp & Associates (now Huron Healthcare) and Inovalon. In those roles, he assessed strategic, operational, and financial opportunities for his clients and for the healthcare industry at large.

Alex has an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, an MSPH from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health, and a BA from Colgate University. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member at the Fuqua School of Business.

John Graziano

Associate

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JohnGraziano

John Graziano, Associate, advises clients on healthcare reform and the Medicare Advantage program. He applies his background in the health insurance industry to support customers in shaping their advocacy and business strategies in response to legislative and regulatory developments. In addition to the ACA, John has a specific expertise in the implications of tax provisions on healthcare and employer-sponsored insurance.

Prior to joining Avalere, John worked at Aetna, where he supported the Government Relations team with regulatory advocacy planning, public policy research and analysis, and the company’s political activity and advocacy work with federal and state legislators.

John holds a BA from The George Washington University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with Honors in Political Science, Public Policy Concentration, and a Minor in Communication.

Graziano

John

Associate

John Graziano, Associate, advises clients on healthcare reform and the Medicare Advantage program. He applies his background in the health insurance industry to support customers in shaping their advocacy and business strategies in response to legislative and regulatory developments. In addition to the ACA, John has a specific expertise in the implications of tax provisions on healthcare and employer-sponsored insurance.

Prior to joining Avalere, John worked at Aetna, where he supported the Government Relations team with regulatory advocacy planning, public policy research and analysis, and the company’s political activity and advocacy work with federal and state legislators.

John holds a BA from The George Washington University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with Honors in Political Science, Public Policy Concentration, and a Minor in Communication.

Joseph Groth

Vice President

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JosephGroth

Joseph Groth, Vice President, advises Life Sciences clients by offering strategic direction to companies and leading research and analytical teams. He applies his background in product branding, pricing and reimbursement strategy to develop unique brand value propositions and market access strategies that deliver competitive advantage. Joseph has extensive expertise in negotiation strategy, new product launch, and commercialization strategy.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joseph was a Senior Director at AstraZeneca where he led a national account team that interacted with diverse health care stakeholders, including Health Plans, Pharmacy Benefit Managers, Trade Distribution and Federal agencies, in support of the company’s brand portfolio. In previous positions at AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline, Joseph led the professional development of teams and directed them as they executed Access and Payer Marketing strategy for multiple brands across diverse therapeutic areas.

Joseph holds an MBA from New York University and a BS in Pharmacy from St. John’s University.

Groth

Joseph

Vice President

Joseph Groth, Vice President, advises Life Sciences clients by offering strategic direction to companies and leading research and analytical teams. He applies his background in product branding, pricing and reimbursement strategy to develop unique brand value propositions and market access strategies that deliver competitive advantage. Joseph has extensive expertise in negotiation strategy, new product launch, and commercialization strategy.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joseph was a Senior Director at AstraZeneca where he led a national account team that interacted with diverse health care stakeholders, including Health Plans, Pharmacy Benefit Managers, Trade Distribution and Federal agencies, in support of the company’s brand portfolio. In previous positions at AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline, Joseph led the professional development of teams and directed them as they executed Access and Payer Marketing strategy for multiple brands across diverse therapeutic areas.

Joseph holds an MBA from New York University and a BS in Pharmacy from St. John’s University.

Helen Hale

Manager

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HelenHale

Helen Hale, Manager, supports clients in the analysis of policy changes and health reform proposals by evaluating the budgetary and market impacts of those proposals. She applies her background working directly with CMS on payment and delivery reform initiatives to provide customized, data-driven analysis on proposed changes to federal policies across life science companies, health plans and providers.

Prior to joining Avalere, Helen was an Associate at Booz Allen Hamilton, serving on the CMS account team where she led projects and tasks related to the Federally Facilitated Marketplace, quality measures and payment and delivery reform.

Helen has an MBA from the Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland and a BA from Wheaton College.

Hale

Helen

Manager

Helen Hale, Manager, supports clients in the analysis of policy changes and health reform proposals by evaluating the budgetary and market impacts of those proposals. She applies her background working directly with CMS on payment and delivery reform initiatives to provide customized, data-driven analysis on proposed changes to federal policies across life science companies, health plans and providers.

Prior to joining Avalere, Helen was an Associate at Booz Allen Hamilton, serving on the CMS account team where she led projects and tasks related to the Federally Facilitated Marketplace, quality measures and payment and delivery reform.

Helen has an MBA from the Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland and a BA from Wheaton College.

Emily Hamilton

Senior Associate

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EmilyHamilton

Prior to joining Avalere, Emily served as a Research Assistant at Columbia University and completed internships with the Greater NYC affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection Program, and Amphion Innovations.

Emily has a BA in Economics and Psychology from Macalester College and a MPH in Health Policy and Management from the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.

Hamilton

Emily

Senior Associate

Prior to joining Avalere, Emily served as a Research Assistant at Columbia University and completed internships with the Greater NYC affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection Program, and Amphion Innovations.

Emily has a BA in Economics and Psychology from Macalester College and a MPH in Health Policy and Management from the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.

Eric Hammelman

Vice President

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EricHammelman

Eric Hammelman, Vice President, provides data-driven analysis of the impact of payment policies on healthcare patterns. He helps clients across multiple sectors understand how data can better inform their business strategies, including responding to emerging trends such as medical homes and accountable care organizations, or shaping new payment policies including payment bundles. He also provides economic forecasts to meet different needs, including company-specific revenue and cost trends, industry-level expectations, or Congressional Budget Office-style legislative scores.

Prior to joining Avalere, Eric was an Associate Analyst with JPMorgan, where he analyzed healthcare service companies and provided investment advice to institutional investors.

Eric has a Bachelor’s of Music Performance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, an MBA from the Marshall School of Business (University of Southern California), and a Masters of Music Performance from the Mannes College of Music in New York, NY. Eric is a CFA charterholder.

Hammelman

Eric

Vice President

Eric Hammelman, Vice President, provides data-driven analysis of the impact of payment policies on healthcare patterns. He helps clients across multiple sectors understand how data can better inform their business strategies, including responding to emerging trends such as medical homes and accountable care organizations, or shaping new payment policies including payment bundles. He also provides economic forecasts to meet different needs, including company-specific revenue and cost trends, industry-level expectations, or Congressional Budget Office-style legislative scores.

Prior to joining Avalere, Eric was an Associate Analyst with JPMorgan, where he analyzed healthcare service companies and provided investment advice to institutional investors.

Eric has a Bachelor’s of Music Performance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, an MBA from the Marshall School of Business (University of Southern California), and a Masters of Music Performance from the Mannes College of Music in New York, NY. Eric is a CFA charterholder.

Holly Hand

Executive Assistant

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HollyHand

Holly Hand, Executive Assistant and Office Manager, provides internal client support in the areas of meeting planning, calendar management, facilities planning and support and research.

Prior to joining Avalere, Holly managed wholesale accounts for 3greenmoms, where she was responsible for international production, order fulfillment, communications and customer service. She has run her own business and also has prior experience at Miller & Chevalier managing law student and lateral hiring and training.

Holly has a BA in English from Franklin and Marshall College. She has served as president and secretary of the Washington Area Legal Recruitment Administrators Association.

Hand

Holly

Executive Assistant

Holly Hand, Executive Assistant and Office Manager, provides internal client support in the areas of meeting planning, calendar management, facilities planning and support and research.

Prior to joining Avalere, Holly managed wholesale accounts for 3greenmoms, where she was responsible for international production, order fulfillment, communications and customer service. She has run her own business and also has prior experience at Miller & Chevalier managing law student and lateral hiring and training.

Holly has a BA in English from Franklin and Marshall College. She has served as president and secretary of the Washington Area Legal Recruitment Administrators Association.

Christine Harhaj

Senior Manager

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ChristineHarhaj

Christine Harhaj, Senior Manager, advises Avalere clients on state and federal implementation of the ACA, focusing on health insurance exchanges and the implications of reform on prescription drug cost sharing. She also provides strategic support to clients on Medicare Part D issues, particularly the evolution of specialty tiers and other benefit design trends.

In addition, Christine leads the team responsible for maintaining Avalere’s proprietary DataFrame® database, which provides insight into the Medicare marketplace, including enrollment patterns, carrier participation, plan formularies, cost-sharing requirements and other benefit structures. Christine also focuses on care coordination for beneficiaries dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.

Christine has a BS in Public Health with a secondary field concentration in Business Administration from the George Washington University’s Milken Institute of Public Health.

Harhaj

Christine

Senior Manager

Christine Harhaj, Senior Manager, advises Avalere clients on state and federal implementation of the ACA, focusing on health insurance exchanges and the implications of reform on prescription drug cost sharing. She also provides strategic support to clients on Medicare Part D issues, particularly the evolution of specialty tiers and other benefit design trends.

In addition, Christine leads the team responsible for maintaining Avalere’s proprietary DataFrame® database, which provides insight into the Medicare marketplace, including enrollment patterns, carrier participation, plan formularies, cost-sharing requirements and other benefit structures. Christine also focuses on care coordination for beneficiaries dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.

Christine has a BS in Public Health with a secondary field concentration in Business Administration from the George Washington University’s Milken Institute of Public Health.

Malaika Hill

Senior Writer

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MalaikaHill

Malaika Hill, Senior Writer, supports Avalere’s practices by creating compelling content for Avalere’s website, press releases, infographics, fact sheets, brochures, and email and social marketing efforts, as well as an array of other sales collateral. Malaika works closely with the firm’s subject matter experts, product development teams, sales staff, and account managers to communicate the value proposition of Avalere’s products and services.

Malaika has the special expertise of writing and editing in the healthcare industry, which has garnered a deep understanding of healthcare and the ability to cull through complex subject matter in order to communicate to diverse audiences. Her experience includes writing press releases, feature articles, and website content for pharmaceutical and medical device companies as a medical writer for Pascale Communications; writing and editing feature stories for several healthcare B2B publications as a senior associate editor for Bryn Mawr Communications; writing patient education materials for the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease for the National Institutes of Health; and generating content representing pediatric research conducted at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute.

Malaika has an MA in English and Publishing from Rosemont College and a BA in Journalism from Virginia Union University.

Hill

Malaika

Senior Writer

Malaika Hill, Senior Writer, supports Avalere’s practices by creating compelling content for Avalere’s website, press releases, infographics, fact sheets, brochures, and email and social marketing efforts, as well as an array of other sales collateral. Malaika works closely with the firm’s subject matter experts, product development teams, sales staff, and account managers to communicate the value proposition of Avalere’s products and services.

Malaika has the special expertise of writing and editing in the healthcare industry, which has garnered a deep understanding of healthcare and the ability to cull through complex subject matter in order to communicate to diverse audiences. Her experience includes writing press releases, feature articles, and website content for pharmaceutical and medical device companies as a medical writer for Pascale Communications; writing and editing feature stories for several healthcare B2B publications as a senior associate editor for Bryn Mawr Communications; writing patient education materials for the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease for the National Institutes of Health; and generating content representing pediatric research conducted at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute.

Malaika has an MA in English and Publishing from Rosemont College and a BA in Journalism from Virginia Union University.

Calvin Himelright

Senior Staff Accountant-Revenue

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CalvinHimelright

Calvin Himelright, Senior Staff Accountant-Revenue, advises internal clients on invoicing, time and expense management, and project utilization. Calvin also has special expertise in revenue recognition policies and procedures.

Prior to joining Avalere, Calvin served as a Financial Analyst at L-3 MPRI. At L-3 Calvin was responsible for managing the project life cycle of law enforcement projects which included revenue and accrual reporting, accounts receivable, billing, and project realization reporting.

Calvin has a double major BS in Finance and Business Management from George Mason University and a BS in Accounting from Mason.

Himelright

Calvin

Senior Staff Accountant-Revenue

Calvin Himelright, Senior Staff Accountant-Revenue, advises internal clients on invoicing, time and expense management, and project utilization. Calvin also has special expertise in revenue recognition policies and procedures.

Prior to joining Avalere, Calvin served as a Financial Analyst at L-3 MPRI. At L-3 Calvin was responsible for managing the project life cycle of law enforcement projects which included revenue and accrual reporting, accounts receivable, billing, and project realization reporting.

Calvin has a double major BS in Finance and Business Management from George Mason University and a BS in Accounting from Mason.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lindy played a key leadership role as Chief Operating Officer for Connect for Health Colorado, establishing the non-profit organization as one of the most successful state-based health insurance marketplaces in the country. Prior to that, she was the Director, Office of Healthcare Reform at Horizon BlueCross of New Jersey leading the Health Care Reform Transformation team. Lindy has also served as Vice President of America’s Health Insurance Plans helping develop key policy positions for the industry leading up to the passage of health reform legislation and early in her career served in the White House Office of Management and Budget.

Lindy holds a BA in history/biology from Washington University in St. Louis and a MA of Health Services Administration from the University of Michigan.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lindy played a key leadership role as Chief Operating Officer for Connect for Health Colorado, establishing the non-profit organization as one of the most successful state-based health insurance marketplaces in the country. Prior to that, she was the Director, Office of Healthcare Reform at Horizon BlueCross of New Jersey leading the Health Care Reform Transformation team. Lindy has also served as Vice President of America’s Health Insurance Plans helping develop key policy positions for the industry leading up to the passage of health reform legislation and early in her career served in the White House Office of Management and Budget.

Lindy holds a BA in history/biology from Washington University in St. Louis and a MA of Health Services Administration from the University of Michigan.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kate served as Benefits Manager and HR Administrator for Ideal Innovations, Inc.

Kate has a BS in Psychology from Chestnut Hill College with a minor in French, a Professional of Human Resources Certificate from the Society for Human Resource Management and a Group Benefits Associate designation from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans. She has served as a board member at-large of the Capital Chapter of the International Society of Certified Employee Benefits Specialists.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kate served as Benefits Manager and HR Administrator for Ideal Innovations, Inc.

Kate has a BS in Psychology from Chestnut Hill College with a minor in French, a Professional of Human Resources Certificate from the Society for Human Resource Management and a Group Benefits Associate designation from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans. She has served as a board member at-large of the Capital Chapter of the International Society of Certified Employee Benefits Specialists.

Kathy Hughes

Vice President

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KathyHughes

Kathy Hughes, Vice President, advises Avalere clients on value strategies, market access, and evidence planning. Kathy partners with life sciences companies to scrutinize complex issues in market access, craft strategies and tactics to address them, and plan for and perform the analytics necessary for their success.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kathy was co-leader of the Market Access practice at Covance, and the Chief Operating Officer at Holy Cross Health Corp. She has also served as Vice President for Corporate and Strategic Planning for Blue Shield of California, and Senior Manager with Ernst & Young’s Healthcare Management consulting practice.

Kathy has a BA from Brandeis University and a MBA from the University of Chicago. She also has a Certificate of Completion from the Mid-Atlantic Health Leadership Institute at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and is a Senior Fellow at the Thomas Jefferson University School of Population Health.

Hughes

Kathy

Vice President

Kathy Hughes, Vice President, advises Avalere clients on value strategies, market access, and evidence planning. Kathy partners with life sciences companies to scrutinize complex issues in market access, craft strategies and tactics to address them, and plan for and perform the analytics necessary for their success.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kathy was co-leader of the Market Access practice at Covance, and the Chief Operating Officer at Holy Cross Health Corp. She has also served as Vice President for Corporate and Strategic Planning for Blue Shield of California, and Senior Manager with Ernst & Young’s Healthcare Management consulting practice.

Kathy has a BA from Brandeis University and a MBA from the University of Chicago. She also has a Certificate of Completion from the Mid-Atlantic Health Leadership Institute at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and is a Senior Fellow at the Thomas Jefferson University School of Population Health.

Lilly Hummel

Senior Manager

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LillyHummel

Lilly Hummel, Senior Manager, advises post-acute care and hospice providers, health systems, and provider associations that are navigating payment and delivery reforms such as accountable care organizations and bundled payments. She provides market analyses and assists clients to understand trends and their strategic opportunities in response to changes in market dynamics and regulatory or legislative updates.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lilly was an Analyst with the Government Accountability Office, providing nonpartisan health policy research and analysis to the U.S. Congress. Previously, she was a Program Assistant with both the Wisconsin Legislative Council, conducting legal and policy research related to proposed legislation, and the Population Health Institute, analyzing the effects of Wisconsin’s Medicaid expansion.

Lilly has a JD from the University of Wisconsin Law School and a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has a BA from Carleton College.

Hummel

Lilly

Senior Manager

Lilly Hummel, Senior Manager, advises post-acute care and hospice providers, health systems, and provider associations that are navigating payment and delivery reforms such as accountable care organizations and bundled payments. She provides market analyses and assists clients to understand trends and their strategic opportunities in response to changes in market dynamics and regulatory or legislative updates.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lilly was an Analyst with the Government Accountability Office, providing nonpartisan health policy research and analysis to the U.S. Congress. Previously, she was a Program Assistant with both the Wisconsin Legislative Council, conducting legal and policy research related to proposed legislation, and the Population Health Institute, analyzing the effects of Wisconsin’s Medicaid expansion.

Lilly has a JD from the University of Wisconsin Law School and a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has a BA from Carleton College.

Brenda Huneycutt

Vice President

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BrendaHuneycutt

Brenda Huneycutt, PhD, JD, MPH, Vice President in Avalere’s FDA Strategy and Regulatory Policy practice, advises clients on regulatory strategy and policy spanning drugs, biologics and diagnostics, and conducts due diligence assessments for clients looking to acquire or in-license products. Using her molecular biology research background, combined with her legal and public health policy training, Brenda helps clients translate technical information into clear descriptions for various audiences, and offers special expertise in regulatory strategy for FDA approval strategies involving accelerated and new pathways, including breakthrough therapy and orphan designations, and biosimilars and interchangeable biologics.

Prior to joining Avalere, Brenda conducted research at the Genetics and Public Policy Center at Johns Hopkins University and was an Patent Attorney for Finnegan, LLP.

Brenda has a BA in Biology from the University of Delaware; a PhD in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from the University of Colorado at Boulder; a JD from the George Washington University School of Law; and a MPH from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Huneycutt

Brenda

Vice President

Brenda Huneycutt, PhD, JD, MPH, Vice President in Avalere’s FDA Strategy and Regulatory Policy practice, advises clients on regulatory strategy and policy spanning drugs, biologics and diagnostics, and conducts due diligence assessments for clients looking to acquire or in-license products. Using her molecular biology research background, combined with her legal and public health policy training, Brenda helps clients translate technical information into clear descriptions for various audiences, and offers special expertise in regulatory strategy for FDA approval strategies involving accelerated and new pathways, including breakthrough therapy and orphan designations, and biosimilars and interchangeable biologics.

Prior to joining Avalere, Brenda conducted research at the Genetics and Public Policy Center at Johns Hopkins University and was an Patent Attorney for Finnegan, LLP.

Brenda has a BA in Biology from the University of Delaware; a PhD in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from the University of Colorado at Boulder; a JD from the George Washington University School of Law; and a MPH from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Fauzea Hussain

Senior Vice President

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FauzeaHussain

Fauzea Hussain, Senior Vice President, advises clients on integrated market access strategies, product commercialization tactical plans, and public and private payer engagement activities. Fauzea collaborates with life sciences companies on integrated market access strategies aimed at optimizing product positioning by ensuring that evidence generation activities align with the evolving demands of payers, providers, and patients as well as coding bodies such as the AMA CPT Editorial Panel. Fauzea has more than 15 years of experience in physician payment and leads our work with physician specialty societies on payment and other strategic issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, Fauzea was Assistant Director of Reimbursement Policy for the American Academy of Physician Assistants, and has also worked as a medical assistant.

Fauzea has a BA in Psychology, a BS in Biology, and a MPH from George Washington University.

Hussain

Fauzea

Senior Vice President

Fauzea Hussain, Senior Vice President, advises clients on integrated market access strategies, product commercialization tactical plans, and public and private payer engagement activities. Fauzea collaborates with life sciences companies on integrated market access strategies aimed at optimizing product positioning by ensuring that evidence generation activities align with the evolving demands of payers, providers, and patients as well as coding bodies such as the AMA CPT Editorial Panel. Fauzea has more than 15 years of experience in physician payment and leads our work with physician specialty societies on payment and other strategic issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, Fauzea was Assistant Director of Reimbursement Policy for the American Academy of Physician Assistants, and has also worked as a medical assistant.

Fauzea has a BA in Psychology, a BS in Biology, and a MPH from George Washington University.

Judit Illes

Senior Associate

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JuditIlles

Judit Illes, Senior Associate, provides research and analytic support for clients within the field of evidence-based medicine and healthcare quality measurement and improvement. Judit was previously a Policy Fellow with Avalere’s FDA practice, where she advised clients on developments in the regulatory oversight of pharmaceutical compounding, drug shortages, and telemedicine.

Prior to joining Avalere, Judit served as a Research Consultant for Hearthstone Alzheimer Care and as a Policy intern for the Commission on the Digital Economy at the International Chamber of Commerce.

Judit has a Bachelor of Civil Law and Bachelor of Laws from McGill University and a MS in Bioethics from Columbia University.

Illes

Judit

Senior Associate

Judit Illes, Senior Associate, provides research and analytic support for clients within the field of evidence-based medicine and healthcare quality measurement and improvement. Judit was previously a Policy Fellow with Avalere’s FDA practice, where she advised clients on developments in the regulatory oversight of pharmaceutical compounding, drug shortages, and telemedicine.

Prior to joining Avalere, Judit served as a Research Consultant for Hearthstone Alzheimer Care and as a Policy intern for the Commission on the Digital Economy at the International Chamber of Commerce.

Judit has a Bachelor of Civil Law and Bachelor of Laws from McGill University and a MS in Bioethics from Columbia University.

TimInocencio

Previous and continuing engagements include the development of value propositions for upcoming products, creating models that demonstrate the economic impact of drugs and delivery systems, and an evaluation of population-level health outcomes and costs associated with drug therapy.

Tim has a PharmD and PhD from Virginia Commonwealth University, specializing in pharmacoeconomics and health outcomes. During his education, he developed economic burden models in opioid-related poisoning and cost-effectiveness analyses in the areas of multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, he also helped design studies evaluating medication adherence in community pharmacies.

Inocencio

Tim

Senior Manager

Previous and continuing engagements include the development of value propositions for upcoming products, creating models that demonstrate the economic impact of drugs and delivery systems, and an evaluation of population-level health outcomes and costs associated with drug therapy.

Tim has a PharmD and PhD from Virginia Commonwealth University, specializing in pharmacoeconomics and health outcomes. During his education, he developed economic burden models in opioid-related poisoning and cost-effectiveness analyses in the areas of multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, he also helped design studies evaluating medication adherence in community pharmacies.

Jay Jackson

Manager

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JayJackson

Jay Jackson, Manager, supports clients on methods to optimize regulatory strategy. He applies his background in molecular biology and legislative affairs to track policy updates, strategize stakeholder engagement and analyze the regulatory environment. Jay also has experience in database analytics.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jay was a Legislative Policy Analyst in the office of Colorado Sen. Jeanne Nicholson performing research and analysis on a wide range of social and public health issues. Prior to that, he was a Professional Research Assistant at the University of Colorado, managing animal model behavioral testing and human genetic copy number assays.

Jay holds a BS in Microbiology and Cell Science from the University of Florida and an MPH in Health Systems Management and Policy from the University of Colorado School of Public Health.

Jackson

Jay

Manager

Jay Jackson, Manager, supports clients on methods to optimize regulatory strategy. He applies his background in molecular biology and legislative affairs to track policy updates, strategize stakeholder engagement and analyze the regulatory environment. Jay also has experience in database analytics.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jay was a Legislative Policy Analyst in the office of Colorado Sen. Jeanne Nicholson performing research and analysis on a wide range of social and public health issues. Prior to that, he was a Professional Research Assistant at the University of Colorado, managing animal model behavioral testing and human genetic copy number assays.

Jay holds a BS in Microbiology and Cell Science from the University of Florida and an MPH in Health Systems Management and Policy from the University of Colorado School of Public Health.

Kathryn Jackson

Manager

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KathrynJackson

Kathryn Jackson, Manager, advises clients on methods to optimize regulatory strategy. Kathryn also works diligently to track policy updates, including those related to companion diagnostics and the impact of those policies on product market access.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kathryn was a National Institutes of Health-funded Graduate Research Fellow at the University of Maryland and worked as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Georgia. As a graduate student, Kathryn received pre-doctoral grant funding from the American College of Sports Medicine as well as the University of Maryland graduate school.

Kathryn has a BS in Animal and Poultry Sciences from Virginia Tech, an MS in Animal Sciences from the University of Georgia and a PhD in Kinesiology from the University of Maryland at College Park.

​

Jackson

Kathryn

Manager

Kathryn Jackson, Manager, advises clients on methods to optimize regulatory strategy. Kathryn also works diligently to track policy updates, including those related to companion diagnostics and the impact of those policies on product market access.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kathryn was a National Institutes of Health-funded Graduate Research Fellow at the University of Maryland and worked as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Georgia. As a graduate student, Kathryn received pre-doctoral grant funding from the American College of Sports Medicine as well as the University of Maryland graduate school.

Kathryn has a BS in Animal and Poultry Sciences from Virginia Tech, an MS in Animal Sciences from the University of Georgia and a PhD in Kinesiology from the University of Maryland at College Park.

​

Dayo Jagun

Director

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DayoJagun

Dayo Jagun, Director, advises Avalere clients on the use of evidence for strategic decision-making especially the measurement of healthcare value and its role in payment and delivery reform. Dayo has expertise in the development and implementation of tools for improving healthcare delivery in various settings including physician offices and integrated delivery systems. Dayo also provides clinical content expertise and leads work related to the development, testing, and validation of healthcare quality measures.

Prior to joining Avalere, he served as a Senior Clinical Solutions Analyst at WellPoint and as a Healthcare Management Fellow at Harvard University Health Service.

Dayo has a medical degree from the University of Lagos and a MPH in Healthcare Management from the Harvard School of Public Health.

Jagun

Dayo

Director

Dayo Jagun, Director, advises Avalere clients on the use of evidence for strategic decision-making especially the measurement of healthcare value and its role in payment and delivery reform. Dayo has expertise in the development and implementation of tools for improving healthcare delivery in various settings including physician offices and integrated delivery systems. Dayo also provides clinical content expertise and leads work related to the development, testing, and validation of healthcare quality measures.

Prior to joining Avalere, he served as a Senior Clinical Solutions Analyst at WellPoint and as a Healthcare Management Fellow at Harvard University Health Service.

Dayo has a medical degree from the University of Lagos and a MPH in Healthcare Management from the Harvard School of Public Health.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nisha served as an Administrative Resident at Suburban Hospital, a member of the Johns Hopkins health system. Before that, Nisha advised hospitals and health systems as part of both Pricewaterhouse Coopers' Provider practice and Stockamp & Associates.

Nisha has a BS in Business Management and minors in Operations Management and Law, Science, and Technology from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and a MHA from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nisha served as an Administrative Resident at Suburban Hospital, a member of the Johns Hopkins health system. Before that, Nisha advised hospitals and health systems as part of both Pricewaterhouse Coopers' Provider practice and Stockamp & Associates.

Nisha has a BS in Business Management and minors in Operations Management and Law, Science, and Technology from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and a MHA from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Nikita Jeswani

Manager

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NikitaJeswani

Nikita Jeswani, Manager, advises clients on the policy environment for defining value and recognizing medical advancements, and on the role of real-world evidence in supporting patient access to clinically appropriate healthcare interventions. Nikita works with life sciences companies, trade associations, and patient advocacy groups to develop strategies around evidence generation and communication, as well as quality improvement and comparative effectiveness research.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nikita interned at the Public Health Management Corporation in Philadelphia and at Privia Health, LLC in Washington, DC.

Nikita has a BA from the University of Pennsylvania where she studied Economics, Chemistry, and Healthcare Management.

Jeswani

Nikita

Manager

Nikita Jeswani, Manager, advises clients on the policy environment for defining value and recognizing medical advancements, and on the role of real-world evidence in supporting patient access to clinically appropriate healthcare interventions. Nikita works with life sciences companies, trade associations, and patient advocacy groups to develop strategies around evidence generation and communication, as well as quality improvement and comparative effectiveness research.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nikita interned at the Public Health Management Corporation in Philadelphia and at Privia Health, LLC in Washington, DC.

Nikita has a BA from the University of Pennsylvania where she studied Economics, Chemistry, and Healthcare Management.

Natasha Jivani

Manager

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Natasha Jivani

Natasha Jivani, Manager, advises clients on how the changing payment and delivery landscape impacts their market position. She works closely with health systems to develop a more informed and strategic position in exchanges, collaborate with public and private payers in new payment models, and make investments to improve quality.

Prior to joining Avalere, Natasha interned at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services as a member of the National Eligibility and Expansion Team. Natasha has also worked at Shanti Orange County, an HIV/AIDS service organization.

Natasha has BAs in History, and Psychology and Social Behavior, from the University of California at Irvine and a MPH in Health Policy and Administration from the Yale School of Public Health.

Jivani

Natasha

Manager

Natasha Jivani, Manager, advises clients on how the changing payment and delivery landscape impacts their market position. She works closely with health systems to develop a more informed and strategic position in exchanges, collaborate with public and private payers in new payment models, and make investments to improve quality.

Prior to joining Avalere, Natasha interned at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services as a member of the National Eligibility and Expansion Team. Natasha has also worked at Shanti Orange County, an HIV/AIDS service organization.

Natasha has BAs in History, and Psychology and Social Behavior, from the University of California at Irvine and a MPH in Health Policy and Administration from the Yale School of Public Health.

Michael Johnsrud

Senior Vice President

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MichaelJohnsrud

Michael Johnsrud, Senior Vice President, leads our health economics and outcomes research group. He provides guidance to clients by helping them create strategies to generate the needed clinical and economic evidence to inform stakeholders in the marketplace. In addition, he designs and conducts studies to analyze how prescription drugs, medical devices, and various interventions impact resource utilization and patient quality of life. Michael has particular expertise in prescription reimbursement policy in Medicaid, Medicare, and private-sector plans, and the economics of the marketplace for community pharmacy and prescription drug benefit programs.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mike was Associate Director of The Center for Pharmacoeconomic Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. Mike received an Award of Excellence from the Journal of Managed Care Pharmacy for research that used prescription drug claims to determine differences in medication payment and utilization between pharmacy delivery channels.

Mike has a BS in Pharmacy from the University of Iowa and a MS and PhD in Pharmacy Administration from the University of Texas at Austin. He is a registered pharmacist.

Johnsrud

Michael

Senior Vice President

Michael Johnsrud, Senior Vice President, leads our health economics and outcomes research group. He provides guidance to clients by helping them create strategies to generate the needed clinical and economic evidence to inform stakeholders in the marketplace. In addition, he designs and conducts studies to analyze how prescription drugs, medical devices, and various interventions impact resource utilization and patient quality of life. Michael has particular expertise in prescription reimbursement policy in Medicaid, Medicare, and private-sector plans, and the economics of the marketplace for community pharmacy and prescription drug benefit programs.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mike was Associate Director of The Center for Pharmacoeconomic Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. Mike received an Award of Excellence from the Journal of Managed Care Pharmacy for research that used prescription drug claims to determine differences in medication payment and utilization between pharmacy delivery channels.

Mike has a BS in Pharmacy from the University of Iowa and a MS and PhD in Pharmacy Administration from the University of Texas at Austin. He is a registered pharmacist.

Jim Johnston

Director

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JimJohnston

Jim Johnston, Business Development Director for the Vantage Care Positioning System™, advises Acute Care and Post-acute Care providers on the utility of utilizing reliable data to position market partnerships for their organizations. Jim also directs clients to engage in other advisory services, based on uncovering clients’ needs via detailed strategic discussions, while building personal and intra-Avalere client relationships.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jim served as a National Corporate Account Director for Johnson & Johnson Healthcare Systems and as a Health Systems Executive at Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. In these roles, Jim successfully employed Large Account Management techniques to meet and exceed aggressive organizational business plans.

Jim holds a BBA in Finance from the University of Notre Dame and an International Executive MBA from Georgetown University.

Johnston

Jim

Director

Jim Johnston, Business Development Director for the Vantage Care Positioning System™, advises Acute Care and Post-acute Care providers on the utility of utilizing reliable data to position market partnerships for their organizations. Jim also directs clients to engage in other advisory services, based on uncovering clients’ needs via detailed strategic discussions, while building personal and intra-Avalere client relationships.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jim served as a National Corporate Account Director for Johnson & Johnson Healthcare Systems and as a Health Systems Executive at Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. In these roles, Jim successfully employed Large Account Management techniques to meet and exceed aggressive organizational business plans.

Jim holds a BBA in Finance from the University of Notre Dame and an International Executive MBA from Georgetown University.

Wes Joines

Senior Manager

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WesJoines

Wes Joines, Senior Manager, advises clients on the impact of health industry change and facilitates appropriate response strategies with the use of proprietary Avalere datasets and insight. He applies his background in exchange plan policy and operations, governmental health programs, and the federal budget process to support clients in the health and life sciences industries.

Prior to joining Avalere, Wes worked at LMI, where he managed the analysis and evaluation of Marketplace premium rates and provider network adequacy for CMS. Previously, he also served as a Summer Fellow in the Medicare Branch of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. He began his health industry consulting career at The Lewin Group.

Wes has an MPA from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University, with a concentration in health policy, and a BA in Public Policy with a second major in Business Administration from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Joines

Wes

Senior Manager

Wes Joines, Senior Manager, advises clients on the impact of health industry change and facilitates appropriate response strategies with the use of proprietary Avalere datasets and insight. He applies his background in exchange plan policy and operations, governmental health programs, and the federal budget process to support clients in the health and life sciences industries.

Prior to joining Avalere, Wes worked at LMI, where he managed the analysis and evaluation of Marketplace premium rates and provider network adequacy for CMS. Previously, he also served as a Summer Fellow in the Medicare Branch of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. He began his health industry consulting career at The Lewin Group.

Wes has an MPA from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University, with a concentration in health policy, and a BA in Public Policy with a second major in Business Administration from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Caryn Just

Senior Associate

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CarynJust

Caryn Just, Senior Associate, advises clients on quality strategy, health reform, and HIT policy. Caryn has a background in the creation and modification of healthcare interoperability standards and the development of implementation guidance surrounding their use in a variety of care settings. Caryn has special expertise in working with Standards Development Organizations and Federal Advisory Committees, particularly Health Level 7, through which she obtained her CDA certification.

Prior to joining Avalere, Caryn served as an analyst with Accenture at both the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT and at Steward Health System. Caryn also held internships in Pancreatic Cancer research at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and in novel biomaterials development for orthopedic implants with a small startup company in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Caryn has a BS in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Virginia.

Just

Caryn

Senior Associate

Caryn Just, Senior Associate, advises clients on quality strategy, health reform, and HIT policy. Caryn has a background in the creation and modification of healthcare interoperability standards and the development of implementation guidance surrounding their use in a variety of care settings. Caryn has special expertise in working with Standards Development Organizations and Federal Advisory Committees, particularly Health Level 7, through which she obtained her CDA certification.

Prior to joining Avalere, Caryn served as an analyst with Accenture at both the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT and at Steward Health System. Caryn also held internships in Pancreatic Cancer research at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and in novel biomaterials development for orthopedic implants with a small startup company in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Caryn has a BS in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Virginia.

Richard Kane

Director

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Richard Kane

Richard Kane, Director, provides data driven analyses and economic insights for clients across multiple sectors. He applies his background in payment and delivery system reform, microsimulation modeling, and economic forecasting to help clients understand new policies and respond to emerging trends. Richard brings to Avalere in-depth experience advising high-level policymakers on risk-based payment models in Medicare (including Accountable Care Organizations and bundled payments) and in building models that illuminate key concerns for policymakers on a wide range of health policy issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, Richard was a Senior Health Economist for the White House Office of Management and Budget, leading economic analyses and modeling across all areas of health policy. Prior to that, as a Senior Economist for the Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of Commerce, he led research, developed methods and oversaw implementation of projects to improve macroeconomic measures.

Richard has an MIPP from Johns Hopkins University, an MA in Economics from The George Washington University and a BA from Washington College. He is a London School of Economics Hansard Scholar.

Kane

Richard

Director

Richard Kane, Director, provides data driven analyses and economic insights for clients across multiple sectors. He applies his background in payment and delivery system reform, microsimulation modeling, and economic forecasting to help clients understand new policies and respond to emerging trends. Richard brings to Avalere in-depth experience advising high-level policymakers on risk-based payment models in Medicare (including Accountable Care Organizations and bundled payments) and in building models that illuminate key concerns for policymakers on a wide range of health policy issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, Richard was a Senior Health Economist for the White House Office of Management and Budget, leading economic analyses and modeling across all areas of health policy. Prior to that, as a Senior Economist for the Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of Commerce, he led research, developed methods and oversaw implementation of projects to improve macroeconomic measures.

Richard has an MIPP from Johns Hopkins University, an MA in Economics from The George Washington University and a BA from Washington College. He is a London School of Economics Hansard Scholar.

Cara Kelly

Director

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CaraKelly

Cara Kelly, Director, advises clients on the impact of health reform initiatives, with an emphasis on health insurance exchanges and insurance market reforms. She specializes in helping health plans, pharmacy benefit managers and other healthcare stakeholders position strategically in the post-Affordable Care Act market. Cara also has expertise in Medicare Parts C and D.

Prior to rejoining Avalere, where she worked until 2010, Cara was at HHS’ Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO). At CCIIO, she focused on Health Insurance Exchanges; specifically, she developed policy and operational requirements for qualified health plans and served as a technical expert for issuers, states and other stakeholders. She has particular knowledge about issues affecting health plans in State Partnership and Federally-facilitated Exchanges, including certification standards and processes, the essential health benefits package, and operational requirements.

Cara has an MHS in Health Policy from Johns Hopkins University and a BA from Yale University.

Kelly

Cara

Director

Cara Kelly, Director, advises clients on the impact of health reform initiatives, with an emphasis on health insurance exchanges and insurance market reforms. She specializes in helping health plans, pharmacy benefit managers and other healthcare stakeholders position strategically in the post-Affordable Care Act market. Cara also has expertise in Medicare Parts C and D.

Prior to rejoining Avalere, where she worked until 2010, Cara was at HHS’ Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO). At CCIIO, she focused on Health Insurance Exchanges; specifically, she developed policy and operational requirements for qualified health plans and served as a technical expert for issuers, states and other stakeholders. She has particular knowledge about issues affecting health plans in State Partnership and Federally-facilitated Exchanges, including certification standards and processes, the essential health benefits package, and operational requirements.

Cara has an MHS in Health Policy from Johns Hopkins University and a BA from Yale University.

Michael Kennedy

Coordinator

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MichaelKennedy

Michael Kennedy, Office Services Coordinator, advises internal clients on a variety of key office functions, including the maintenance of equipment, beautification and maintenance of the office space, and purchasing and inventory. Michael’s day-to-day work focuses on ensuring smooth and efficient operations of Avalere’s Washington, DC, office.

Prior to joining Avalere, Michael served as an Overnight Operations Manager for Giant Foods and as an Account Operation Manager for Xerox.

Kennedy

Michael

Coordinator

Michael Kennedy, Office Services Coordinator, advises internal clients on a variety of key office functions, including the maintenance of equipment, beautification and maintenance of the office space, and purchasing and inventory. Michael’s day-to-day work focuses on ensuring smooth and efficient operations of Avalere’s Washington, DC, office.

Prior to joining Avalere, Michael served as an Overnight Operations Manager for Giant Foods and as an Account Operation Manager for Xerox.

Will Kim

Director

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WillKim

Will Kim, Director, provides data-driven analysis and quantitative modeling primarily for FORTUNE 500 pharmaceutical and medical device companies and hospitals, with a specific focus on healthcare financing and delivery issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, Will was a Manager of Strategic Planning at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center where he oversaw a team that leveraged data analytics to conduct studies to address business and policy issues facing the hospital system.

Will has a MS in Public Policy and Management with a Distinction Award from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, and a BA in Public Management and a MPA from Yonsei University in South Korea.

Kim

Will

Director

Will Kim, Director, provides data-driven analysis and quantitative modeling primarily for FORTUNE 500 pharmaceutical and medical device companies and hospitals, with a specific focus on healthcare financing and delivery issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, Will was a Manager of Strategic Planning at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center where he oversaw a team that leveraged data analytics to conduct studies to address business and policy issues facing the hospital system.

Will has a MS in Public Policy and Management with a Distinction Award from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, and a BA in Public Management and a MPA from Yonsei University in South Korea.

Hillary Kleiner

Director

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HillaryKleiner

Hillary Kleiner, Director, advises Avalere clients on the use of comparative effectiveness research (CER) to inform decisions in health policy, including the proper utilization of healthcare resources to improve patient outcomes. Hillary has special expertise in developing and implementing innovative ideas for conducting systematic evidence reviews to support the development of clinical practice guidelines, healthcare quality measures and performance metrics. Hillary applies her background in program management, strategic planning and qualitative analysis to lead engagements for a variety of life sciences clients.

Prior to joining Avalere, Hillary served as Managing Consultant at the Lewin Group, leading their Evidence Based Clinical Practice Guidelines efforts. Prior to that, as an Associate at Booz Allen Hamilton, she led large program evaluation engagements for the Veterans Health Administration.

Hillary has a MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from San Diego State University, and a BS in Exercise Science from Northern Arizona University.

Kleiner

Hillary

Director

Hillary Kleiner, Director, advises Avalere clients on the use of comparative effectiveness research (CER) to inform decisions in health policy, including the proper utilization of healthcare resources to improve patient outcomes. Hillary has special expertise in developing and implementing innovative ideas for conducting systematic evidence reviews to support the development of clinical practice guidelines, healthcare quality measures and performance metrics. Hillary applies her background in program management, strategic planning and qualitative analysis to lead engagements for a variety of life sciences clients.

Prior to joining Avalere, Hillary served as Managing Consultant at the Lewin Group, leading their Evidence Based Clinical Practice Guidelines efforts. Prior to that, as an Associate at Booz Allen Hamilton, she led large program evaluation engagements for the Veterans Health Administration.

Hillary has a MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from San Diego State University, and a BS in Exercise Science from Northern Arizona University.

Prior to joining Avalere, Danny served in a number of operating and planning roles during more than a decade as a senior executive at AOL, from 1994 until 2005. More recently, Danny has focused on the healthcare industry, including founding and serving as CEO of a health IT and care management services company. Earlier in his career, Danny served as a corporate strategy consultant at Bain & Company and founded a Bain Capital backed startup.

Danny has a degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Prior to joining Avalere, Danny served in a number of operating and planning roles during more than a decade as a senior executive at AOL, from 1994 until 2005. More recently, Danny has focused on the healthcare industry, including founding and serving as CEO of a health IT and care management services company. Earlier in his career, Danny served as a corporate strategy consultant at Bain & Company and founded a Bain Capital backed startup.

Danny has a degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

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Celina Kurani

Member Services Lead

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CelinaKurani

Celina Kurani, Member Services Lead, advises Life Sciences clients in the optimal use of Avalere’s Business Intelligence (BI) portfolio. She applies her background in healthcare finance and business intelligence solutions to support life sciences clients. She has special expertise in serving senior executives across the healthcare continuum.

Prior to joining Avalere, Celina was a Manager at the Healthcare Financial Management Association, identifying and delivering relevant content to stakeholders and maximizing client engagement and satisfaction. Prior to that, she served as Senior Analyst at The Advisory Board Company, and worked with clients to identify gaps in content offerings and applications, and managed collateral creation for a suite of BI products.

Celina has a B.A. in International Studies from American University.

Kurani

Celina

Member Services Lead

Celina Kurani, Member Services Lead, advises Life Sciences clients in the optimal use of Avalere’s Business Intelligence (BI) portfolio. She applies her background in healthcare finance and business intelligence solutions to support life sciences clients. She has special expertise in serving senior executives across the healthcare continuum.

Prior to joining Avalere, Celina was a Manager at the Healthcare Financial Management Association, identifying and delivering relevant content to stakeholders and maximizing client engagement and satisfaction. Prior to that, she served as Senior Analyst at The Advisory Board Company, and worked with clients to identify gaps in content offerings and applications, and managed collateral creation for a suite of BI products.

Celina has a B.A. in International Studies from American University.

Brian Leinwand

Senior Manager

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BrianLeinwand

Brian Leinwand, Scientist I, provides strategic health economics support throughout a product’s lifecycle, and helps clients build evidence packages that demonstrate and support the value of their products. Brian’s area of specialization is economic modeling, and has developed models to determine the budget impact of continuous glucose monitoring for type 1 diabetes and global fibroid ablation for treatment of uterine fibroids, among others.

Prior to joining Avalere, Brian served as a Research Assistant at both the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and GlaxoSmithKline, as well as a health services researcher at Community Care of North Carolina.

Brian has a BA in Management and Society, a MPH in Health Policy and Management, and a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Brian is also a member of the International Society of Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research and AcademyHealth.

Leinwand

Brian

Senior Manager

Brian Leinwand, Scientist I, provides strategic health economics support throughout a product’s lifecycle, and helps clients build evidence packages that demonstrate and support the value of their products. Brian’s area of specialization is economic modeling, and has developed models to determine the budget impact of continuous glucose monitoring for type 1 diabetes and global fibroid ablation for treatment of uterine fibroids, among others.

Prior to joining Avalere, Brian served as a Research Assistant at both the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and GlaxoSmithKline, as well as a health services researcher at Community Care of North Carolina.

Brian has a BA in Management and Society, a MPH in Health Policy and Management, and a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Brian is also a member of the International Society of Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research and AcademyHealth.

Melissa Lewis

HR Administrator

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MelissaLewis

Melissa Lewis, Human Resources Administrator, advises candidates and internal clients on schedule coordination and document compliance. Mel applies her background in Human Resources and Office Management to help provide a welcoming and positive recruitment experience to potential candidates. Mel also has special expertise in document management.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mel served as the Office Manager at Servpro of Bethesda, providing management and support to the production and office staff.

Melissa has a BA in Sociology from University of Maryland, College Park.

Lewis

Melissa

HR Administrator

Melissa Lewis, Human Resources Administrator, advises candidates and internal clients on schedule coordination and document compliance. Mel applies her background in Human Resources and Office Management to help provide a welcoming and positive recruitment experience to potential candidates. Mel also has special expertise in document management.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mel served as the Office Manager at Servpro of Bethesda, providing management and support to the production and office staff.

Melissa has a BA in Sociology from University of Maryland, College Park.

John E. Linnehan

Director

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John E.Linnehan

John E. Linnehan, Director, advises life sciences clients on strategies to generate high-quality evidence, demonstrate product value, and secure patient access in the face of a complex and evolving market. He has particular expertise in health economics and outcomes research.

Prior to joining Avalere, John served as a Health Economist at Oxford Outcomes and a Research Associate within the Health Economics practice at United BioSource Corporation.

John holds a BA in Biology from the University of Pennsylvania, a MPH from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and a MBA from Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. His research has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals.

Linnehan

John E.

Director

John E. Linnehan, Director, advises life sciences clients on strategies to generate high-quality evidence, demonstrate product value, and secure patient access in the face of a complex and evolving market. He has particular expertise in health economics and outcomes research.

Prior to joining Avalere, John served as a Health Economist at Oxford Outcomes and a Research Associate within the Health Economics practice at United BioSource Corporation.

John holds a BA in Biology from the University of Pennsylvania, a MPH from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and a MBA from Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. His research has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals.

Christine Liow

Manager

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ChristineLiow

Christine Liow, Manager, advises clients on key developments in comparative effectiveness research, the impacts of health technology assessments and other evidentiary requirements on patient, provider, and payer needs, and strategies for external public and private engagement. She also has expertise in patient-centered outcomes research and patient-centered care.

Prior to joining Avalere, Christine served as a Research and Policy intern in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response and as a Healthcare Analytic Consultant intern at Thomson Reuters.

Christine has a BS in Biology from The College of William and Mary and a MPH in Health Policy and Management from Emory University.

Liow

Christine

Manager

Christine Liow, Manager, advises clients on key developments in comparative effectiveness research, the impacts of health technology assessments and other evidentiary requirements on patient, provider, and payer needs, and strategies for external public and private engagement. She also has expertise in patient-centered outcomes research and patient-centered care.

Prior to joining Avalere, Christine served as a Research and Policy intern in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response and as a Healthcare Analytic Consultant intern at Thomson Reuters.

Christine has a BS in Biology from The College of William and Mary and a MPH in Health Policy and Management from Emory University.

Patrick Lockhart

Senior Systems Engineer

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PatrickLockhart

Patrick Lockhart, Senior Systems Engineer, supports Avalere’ technology and user base. He applies his background in systems management and network technologies to assist the Technology Team in meeting Avalere's business requirements. Patrick has special expertise in Linux computing and Microsoft Windows systems, including strong knowledge of VoIP, web development, and database administration.

Prior to joining Avalere, Patrick was a Systems Administrator and Engineer with Dean & Company, responsible for the management and monitoring of the company’s systems and networks. In addition, he developed and implemented policies and guidelines around security and operations.

Patrick is a RedHat Certified Systems Administrator and attended the Business Training Center College where he attained Certifications in CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+.

Lockhart

Patrick

Senior Systems Engineer

Patrick Lockhart, Senior Systems Engineer, supports Avalere’ technology and user base. He applies his background in systems management and network technologies to assist the Technology Team in meeting Avalere's business requirements. Patrick has special expertise in Linux computing and Microsoft Windows systems, including strong knowledge of VoIP, web development, and database administration.

Prior to joining Avalere, Patrick was a Systems Administrator and Engineer with Dean & Company, responsible for the management and monitoring of the company’s systems and networks. In addition, he developed and implemented policies and guidelines around security and operations.

Patrick is a RedHat Certified Systems Administrator and attended the Business Training Center College where he attained Certifications in CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+.

Andrew Loewer

Manager

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AndrewLoewer

Andrew Loewer, Manager, provides data-driven analysis and quantitative modeling of the impact of various legislative actions and policy changes on the healthcare industry, with a specific focus on the financing and delivery of healthcare. Andrew applies his expertise as a credentialed actuary to help evaluate the financial implications of future events and quantify risk factors.

Prior to joining Avalere, Andrew was a Senior Analyst at Towers Watson, using data and financial probability models to help Fortune 500 clients with their retirement and healthcare programs. By the end of his time there, he was a subject matter expert for valuation modeling challenges across the company’s over 50 North American offices.

Andrew has a B.A. in Economics from Cornell University. He is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries.

Loewer

Andrew

Manager

Andrew Loewer, Manager, provides data-driven analysis and quantitative modeling of the impact of various legislative actions and policy changes on the healthcare industry, with a specific focus on the financing and delivery of healthcare. Andrew applies his expertise as a credentialed actuary to help evaluate the financial implications of future events and quantify risk factors.

Prior to joining Avalere, Andrew was a Senior Analyst at Towers Watson, using data and financial probability models to help Fortune 500 clients with their retirement and healthcare programs. By the end of his time there, he was a subject matter expert for valuation modeling challenges across the company’s over 50 North American offices.

Andrew has a B.A. in Economics from Cornell University. He is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries.

Lisa Lowenstein

Senior Manager

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LisaLowenstein

Lisa Lowenstein, Senior Manager, supports clients on health reform initiatives, focusing on coverage expansion in health insurance exchanges and health insurance market reforms. She applies her background in Affordable Care Act (ACA) implementation to help clients assess the impact of the ACA on their business strategies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lisa was an Advisor/Special Assistant at HHS’ Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO), providing strategic policy and legislative advice to the Director and Deputy Director. She also drafted regulations, supplemental guidance, and policy papers regarding provisions of the ACA, and she managed HIPAA and ACA compliance issues. Previously, she was a law fellow at Georgetown University Law Center and an associate at Torys LLP in New York, NY.

Lisa has a JD from Georgetown University Law Center and an AB in English from Princeton University.
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Lowenstein

Lisa

Senior Manager

Lisa Lowenstein, Senior Manager, supports clients on health reform initiatives, focusing on coverage expansion in health insurance exchanges and health insurance market reforms. She applies her background in Affordable Care Act (ACA) implementation to help clients assess the impact of the ACA on their business strategies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lisa was an Advisor/Special Assistant at HHS’ Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO), providing strategic policy and legislative advice to the Director and Deputy Director. She also drafted regulations, supplemental guidance, and policy papers regarding provisions of the ACA, and she managed HIPAA and ACA compliance issues. Previously, she was a law fellow at Georgetown University Law Center and an associate at Torys LLP in New York, NY.

Lisa has a JD from Georgetown University Law Center and an AB in English from Princeton University.
​

Debbie Lucas

Vice President

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DebbieLucas

Debbie Lucas, Vice President, advises clients on value strategies, market access, and evidence generation. Debbie leads efforts with life sciences companies, professional societies, quality improvement organizations, and healthcare providers related to the strategic collection and use of clinical data to improve patient care with a particular emphasis on electronic health data. Most recently she worked on an initiative that brought together the healthcare provider and EHR communities to design a module focused on childhood obesity to support improvements in healthcare via shared decision-making, care coordination, and self-management.

Prior to joining Avalere, Debbie was the Director of Clinical Quality and Consulting at DocSite (later acquired by Covisint) and spent much of her career at GlaxoSmithKline.

Debbie has a BS in Biology from Baldwin-Wallace College and a MPH in Epidemiology from the University of Michigan. She was a member of the Commonwealth Fund’s Health Care Leaders Opinion Survey Panel.

Lucas

Debbie

Vice President

Debbie Lucas, Vice President, advises clients on value strategies, market access, and evidence generation. Debbie leads efforts with life sciences companies, professional societies, quality improvement organizations, and healthcare providers related to the strategic collection and use of clinical data to improve patient care with a particular emphasis on electronic health data. Most recently she worked on an initiative that brought together the healthcare provider and EHR communities to design a module focused on childhood obesity to support improvements in healthcare via shared decision-making, care coordination, and self-management.

Prior to joining Avalere, Debbie was the Director of Clinical Quality and Consulting at DocSite (later acquired by Covisint) and spent much of her career at GlaxoSmithKline.

Debbie has a BS in Biology from Baldwin-Wallace College and a MPH in Epidemiology from the University of Michigan. She was a member of the Commonwealth Fund’s Health Care Leaders Opinion Survey Panel.

Mark Ludwick

Director

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MarkLudwick

Mark Ludwick, Director, advises hospital and post-acute providers on all aspects of strategic planning, market development, and partner opportunities. Mark also has special expertise in sales and marketing management, with emphasis on training, coaching, and development of sales professionals. He has expanded experience in the operational functions in both the hospital and post-acute settings.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mark served as a National Director, Sales and Marketing for Sava Senior Healthcare Consulting and as a Director of Sales for Aspect Medical Systems.

Mark has a BA in Communications from Stonehill College.

Ludwick

Mark

Director

Mark Ludwick, Director, advises hospital and post-acute providers on all aspects of strategic planning, market development, and partner opportunities. Mark also has special expertise in sales and marketing management, with emphasis on training, coaching, and development of sales professionals. He has expanded experience in the operational functions in both the hospital and post-acute settings.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mark served as a National Director, Sales and Marketing for Sava Senior Healthcare Consulting and as a Director of Sales for Aspect Medical Systems.

Mark has a BA in Communications from Stonehill College.

Ellen Lukens

Senior Vice President

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EllenLukens

Ellen Lukens, Senior Vice President, leads the Providers Practice at Avalere Health. She provides strategic support to a broad array of clients including hospital, post-acute, and long-term care providers, associations, foundations, life sciences companies, and the financial services sector. Her work focuses on helping clients navigate the current and future hospital and post-acute care delivery and payment environment. She has led projects ranging from an educational series on Medicare provider payment to assisting a client in transforming its delivery and health plan contracting model to a bundled payment system for government and commercial payers. She conducts extensive research using the Medicare claims data and the Medicare current beneficiary survey to develop alternative payment systems and analyze the impact of varying policy alternatives on Medicare volume and payment.

Ellen started her healthcare career as a policy analyst in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Office of Legislation where she covered inpatient hospital, graduate medical education, skilled nursing facility, and Medicare Trust Fund solvency issues. She also spent three years as a consultant with CSC Healthcare/APM Management Consultants leading on-site hospital projects including several related to revenue management and physician acquisition. Immediately prior to joining Avalere, She held key policy roles at the National Association of Public Hospitals and the Greater New York Hospital Association, where she directed policy activities related to Medicaid and Medicare funding for academic medical centers and safety-net hospitals.

Ellen holds a B.A. from Northwestern University and earned a M.P.H. from the University of Michigan.

Lukens

Ellen

Senior Vice President

Ellen Lukens, Senior Vice President, leads the Providers Practice at Avalere Health. She provides strategic support to a broad array of clients including hospital, post-acute, and long-term care providers, associations, foundations, life sciences companies, and the financial services sector. Her work focuses on helping clients navigate the current and future hospital and post-acute care delivery and payment environment. She has led projects ranging from an educational series on Medicare provider payment to assisting a client in transforming its delivery and health plan contracting model to a bundled payment system for government and commercial payers. She conducts extensive research using the Medicare claims data and the Medicare current beneficiary survey to develop alternative payment systems and analyze the impact of varying policy alternatives on Medicare volume and payment.

Ellen started her healthcare career as a policy analyst in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Office of Legislation where she covered inpatient hospital, graduate medical education, skilled nursing facility, and Medicare Trust Fund solvency issues. She also spent three years as a consultant with CSC Healthcare/APM Management Consultants leading on-site hospital projects including several related to revenue management and physician acquisition. Immediately prior to joining Avalere, She held key policy roles at the National Association of Public Hospitals and the Greater New York Hospital Association, where she directed policy activities related to Medicaid and Medicare funding for academic medical centers and safety-net hospitals.

Ellen holds a B.A. from Northwestern University and earned a M.P.H. from the University of Michigan.

Jennifer Lundy

Executive Assistant

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JenniferLundy

Jennifer Lundy, Executive Assistant, provides internal client support in the areas of scheduling, time management and research. She assists Avalere’s senior level staff within the Health Economics and Outcomes Research and Healthcare Reform Practices by providing customer service and client follow-up.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jennifer served as a Scheduler and Executive Assistant for a Member of Congress.

Jennifer has a BA in Government and International Affairs from Sweet Briar College.

Lundy

Jennifer

Executive Assistant

Jennifer Lundy, Executive Assistant, provides internal client support in the areas of scheduling, time management and research. She assists Avalere’s senior level staff within the Health Economics and Outcomes Research and Healthcare Reform Practices by providing customer service and client follow-up.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jennifer served as a Scheduler and Executive Assistant for a Member of Congress.

Jennifer has a BA in Government and International Affairs from Sweet Briar College.

Michael Lutz

Director

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MichaelLutz

Michael Lutz, Director, supports clients serving members in Medicare, Medicaid and commercial health programs. He applies his background in plan operations and strategy to help customers anticipate and implement changes in federal and state regulations to ensure program compliance and operational efficiency. Michael has special expertise in Medicare Advantage, Medicaid Managed Care, Medicare Part D and behavioral health programs.

Prior to joining Avalere, Michael was an Associate Director at Navigant Consulting, providing strategic guidance to health insurers, state Medicaid agencies, CMS and state and local governments. Previously, as Director of Care Management Strategy and Development at Bravo Health, Michael was responsible for multiple operations and strategy projects in support of health plan launches and health services initiatives.

Michael has an MBA from Temple University and a BA from Dickinson College.

Lutz

Michael

Director

Michael Lutz, Director, supports clients serving members in Medicare, Medicaid and commercial health programs. He applies his background in plan operations and strategy to help customers anticipate and implement changes in federal and state regulations to ensure program compliance and operational efficiency. Michael has special expertise in Medicare Advantage, Medicaid Managed Care, Medicare Part D and behavioral health programs.

Prior to joining Avalere, Michael was an Associate Director at Navigant Consulting, providing strategic guidance to health insurers, state Medicaid agencies, CMS and state and local governments. Previously, as Director of Care Management Strategy and Development at Bravo Health, Michael was responsible for multiple operations and strategy projects in support of health plan launches and health services initiatives.

Michael has an MBA from Temple University and a BA from Dickinson College.

Joseph Lynch

Director

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JosephLynch

Joseph Lynch, Director, supports clients through the use of clinical data for strategic decision-making. With a background in the use of clinically-enriched administrative data and data derived from clinicians and patients, he assists clients with using clinical data for strategic decision making, implementation of local quality improvement efforts, and development of business strategies to support data collection and integration across health care settings. Joseph has special expertise in designing and implementing patient registries and developing and validating performance measures.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joseph was a Director at Remedy Informatics where he managed the design and implementation of CV clinical registries as well as developed and validated registry-based performance measures for quality reporting and research. Prior to that, Joseph held Senior Director positions at Inovalon where his contributions ranged from managing strategic application of EHR initiative capabilities to support expansion of ACO and HIE capabilities within the organization to consulting with professional societies in designing, implementing and maintaining clinical registries.

Joseph has an Associate of Arts, Nursing, from Montgomery College and is a Registered Nurse.

Lynch

Joseph

Director

Joseph Lynch, Director, supports clients through the use of clinical data for strategic decision-making. With a background in the use of clinically-enriched administrative data and data derived from clinicians and patients, he assists clients with using clinical data for strategic decision making, implementation of local quality improvement efforts, and development of business strategies to support data collection and integration across health care settings. Joseph has special expertise in designing and implementing patient registries and developing and validating performance measures.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joseph was a Director at Remedy Informatics where he managed the design and implementation of CV clinical registries as well as developed and validated registry-based performance measures for quality reporting and research. Prior to that, Joseph held Senior Director positions at Inovalon where his contributions ranged from managing strategic application of EHR initiative capabilities to support expansion of ACO and HIE capabilities within the organization to consulting with professional societies in designing, implementing and maintaining clinical registries.

Joseph has an Associate of Arts, Nursing, from Montgomery College and is a Registered Nurse.

Liz Magsig

Manager

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LizMagsig

Liz Magsig, Manager, advises internal Life Sciences clients on marketing strategy with a specific focus on content curation and development. She also has experience providing media relations and public affairs counsel on issues pertaining to health policy.

Prior to joining Avalere, Liz was a Communications Director at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), tracking issues and legislation related to Medicare, Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act , medication adherence and cost. In this role, she crafted and placed communications in national media and coordinated media interviews. Prior to that, she was a Public Information Officer for the American Medical Association, monitoring issues pertaining to Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, Medicare regulations, fraud, vaccinations, ICD-10, health care spending and physician income.

Liz holds a BA in English from Wittenberg University, Springfield, OH.

Magsig

Liz

Manager

Liz Magsig, Manager, advises internal Life Sciences clients on marketing strategy with a specific focus on content curation and development. She also has experience providing media relations and public affairs counsel on issues pertaining to health policy.

Prior to joining Avalere, Liz was a Communications Director at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), tracking issues and legislation related to Medicare, Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act , medication adherence and cost. In this role, she crafted and placed communications in national media and coordinated media interviews. Prior to that, she was a Public Information Officer for the American Medical Association, monitoring issues pertaining to Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, Medicare regulations, fraud, vaccinations, ICD-10, health care spending and physician income.

Liz holds a BA in English from Wittenberg University, Springfield, OH.

Mairin Brady Mancino

Vice President

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Mairin Brady Mancino

Mairin Brady Mancino, Vice President, advises clients on the impact that legislation and regulatory and policy changes will have on the healthcare industry. She specializes in helping health plans, pharmacy benefit managers, associations, and a variety of other industry players interpret and prepare for reform. Her efforts focus on the coverage expansion provisions of the Affordable Care Act, particularly on the health insurance exchanges and Medicaid expansion, and the impacts these initiatives will have on the various insurance market selling channels, including private exchanges.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mairin was a Senior Research Associate at FBR Capital Markets, where she interpreted healthcare policy developments for the investment community. Before that, she worked in sales and product management at research firm Washington Analysis.

Mairin has a BA in American Studies and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Amherst College.

Mancino

Mairin Brady

Vice President

Mairin Brady Mancino, Vice President, advises clients on the impact that legislation and regulatory and policy changes will have on the healthcare industry. She specializes in helping health plans, pharmacy benefit managers, associations, and a variety of other industry players interpret and prepare for reform. Her efforts focus on the coverage expansion provisions of the Affordable Care Act, particularly on the health insurance exchanges and Medicaid expansion, and the impacts these initiatives will have on the various insurance market selling channels, including private exchanges.

Prior to joining Avalere, Mairin was a Senior Research Associate at FBR Capital Markets, where she interpreted healthcare policy developments for the investment community. Before that, she worked in sales and product management at research firm Washington Analysis.

Mairin has a BA in American Studies and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Amherst College.

Kristine Mangor

Senior Manager

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KristineMangor

Kristine Mangor, Senior Manager, is part of the Corporate Services team. In this role she supports reporting initiatives across the firm, works with systems administrators for Salesforce, Accounting systems, HR systems and IT to ensure all systems are integrated effectively, and serves as the Deltek Vision Systems Administrator.

Kris has extensive ERP experience in a variety of products and expert knowledge of Deltek Vision. Prior to joining Avalere, Kris worked as a Financial Systems Analyst for McCrone Inc. and as Assistant Controller for AMIDEAST. She also acted as Administrative Director for the startup biotech company Advagen Inc. Early in her career, she was a Molecular Genetics research assistant at NIMH and Rockefeller University.

Kris has a BS in Environmental Science/Chemistry from the University of Massachusetts and a MS in Accounting and Information Technology from the University of Maryland.

Mangor

Kristine

Senior Manager

Kristine Mangor, Senior Manager, is part of the Corporate Services team. In this role she supports reporting initiatives across the firm, works with systems administrators for Salesforce, Accounting systems, HR systems and IT to ensure all systems are integrated effectively, and serves as the Deltek Vision Systems Administrator.

Kris has extensive ERP experience in a variety of products and expert knowledge of Deltek Vision. Prior to joining Avalere, Kris worked as a Financial Systems Analyst for McCrone Inc. and as Assistant Controller for AMIDEAST. She also acted as Administrative Director for the startup biotech company Advagen Inc. Early in her career, she was a Molecular Genetics research assistant at NIMH and Rockefeller University.

Kris has a BS in Environmental Science/Chemistry from the University of Massachusetts and a MS in Accounting and Information Technology from the University of Maryland.

Borislava Marcheva

Manager

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BorislavaMarcheva

​Borislava Marcheva, Manager, advises clients on the requirements and impacts of payment and delivery reform. She applies her background in strategy to assist clients in selecting appropriate delivery reform practices, tailoring their offerings, and targeting high-value opportunities in response to federal mandates and emerging payment programs. Borislava also has special expertise in wellness and disease management programs, care integration and readmission reduction.

Prior to joining Avalere, Borislava worked on the strategy team of LexisNexis, as well as at the Advisory Board Company, where she advised hospitals and hospital systems on a range of issues. Borislava also has consulted for the World Bank on global health issues in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Borislava has a MA in International Economics and International Relations from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), and a BA in Economics from Smith College, Northampton, Mass.

Marcheva

Borislava

Manager

​Borislava Marcheva, Manager, advises clients on the requirements and impacts of payment and delivery reform. She applies her background in strategy to assist clients in selecting appropriate delivery reform practices, tailoring their offerings, and targeting high-value opportunities in response to federal mandates and emerging payment programs. Borislava also has special expertise in wellness and disease management programs, care integration and readmission reduction.

Prior to joining Avalere, Borislava worked on the strategy team of LexisNexis, as well as at the Advisory Board Company, where she advised hospitals and hospital systems on a range of issues. Borislava also has consulted for the World Bank on global health issues in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Borislava has a MA in International Economics and International Relations from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), and a BA in Economics from Smith College, Northampton, Mass.

Susan Massaro

Vice President

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SusanMassaro

Susan Massaro, Vice President, advises Life Sciences clients across a variety of areas, delivering research, analytics and strategic insights to pharmaceutical, biotechnology and device companies. Susan’s expertise in in medical affairs and health economics and outcomes research enables her to engage clients across a wide array of topics. Susan also has a great deal of experience in product launches across a number of therapeutic areas and expertise in developing and executing clinical and outcomes research.

Prior to joining Avalere, Susan was a Head and Business Partner at Novartis Pharmaceuticals, developing and implementing outcomes research strategy for the Integrated Hospital Care and Primary Care & Established Medicines Medical Units. Susan was originally a practicing pharmacist with a specialty focus in pediatric critical care but has spent the last 18 years in various roles in the pharmaceutical industry.

Susan holds a BA in Pharmacy from the University of Pittsburgh and a PharmD from The Ohio State University. She completed an ASHP accredited specialty residency in pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and recently graduated from the Executive MPH program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Massaro

Susan

Vice President

Susan Massaro, Vice President, advises Life Sciences clients across a variety of areas, delivering research, analytics and strategic insights to pharmaceutical, biotechnology and device companies. Susan’s expertise in in medical affairs and health economics and outcomes research enables her to engage clients across a wide array of topics. Susan also has a great deal of experience in product launches across a number of therapeutic areas and expertise in developing and executing clinical and outcomes research.

Prior to joining Avalere, Susan was a Head and Business Partner at Novartis Pharmaceuticals, developing and implementing outcomes research strategy for the Integrated Hospital Care and Primary Care & Established Medicines Medical Units. Susan was originally a practicing pharmacist with a specialty focus in pediatric critical care but has spent the last 18 years in various roles in the pharmaceutical industry.

Susan holds a BA in Pharmacy from the University of Pittsburgh and a PharmD from The Ohio State University. She completed an ASHP accredited specialty residency in pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and recently graduated from the Executive MPH program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Kristin McCarthy

Manager

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Kristin McCarthy

Kristin McCarthy, Manager, supports clients on Affordable Care Act (ACA) implementation, focusing on coverage expansion and insurance market reforms. Kristin applies her experience working at an insurance exchange at the state level to help clients anticipate the impact of health reform on business strategy.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kristin was the Health and Wellness Coordinator at the Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority (Massachusetts’ health insurance exchange) where she led the Connector’s small group wellness program. In addition, Kristin managed the Commonwealth’s student health insurance program, overseeing regulatory and compliance efforts for commercial student plans. Prior to this role, Kristin served as the Connector’s External Affairs Coordinator. Previously, Kristin served as a legal and regulatory intern for both the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts.

Kristin has a JD from Suffolk University Law School and a BA in Political Science from Trinity College, Hartford, CT.
​

McCarthy

Kristin

Manager

Kristin McCarthy, Manager, supports clients on Affordable Care Act (ACA) implementation, focusing on coverage expansion and insurance market reforms. Kristin applies her experience working at an insurance exchange at the state level to help clients anticipate the impact of health reform on business strategy.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kristin was the Health and Wellness Coordinator at the Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority (Massachusetts’ health insurance exchange) where she led the Connector’s small group wellness program. In addition, Kristin managed the Commonwealth’s student health insurance program, overseeing regulatory and compliance efforts for commercial student plans. Prior to this role, Kristin served as the Connector’s External Affairs Coordinator. Previously, Kristin served as a legal and regulatory intern for both the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts.

Kristin has a JD from Suffolk University Law School and a BA in Political Science from Trinity College, Hartford, CT.
​

For 20 years, Nancy has been working with life sciences companies to identify opportunities to develop comprehensive access strategies and tactical programs by analyzing healthcare policy, industry, and distribution trends. She also has experience working with national health plans and pharmacy benefit management companies to help self-insured employers understand their healthcare spend while educating their employees to become effective consumers of healthcare.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nancy held positions at Castlight Health; Manatt, Phelps & Phillips; and she was the Chief Operating Officer for Lash Group. She began her consulting career at The Lewin Group.

Nancy holds a DrPH from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill; an MPH from Columbia University; and has been a member of the California State Bar Association since 1995. She is a board member of the Sustainable Kidney Care Foundation.

For 20 years, Nancy has been working with life sciences companies to identify opportunities to develop comprehensive access strategies and tactical programs by analyzing healthcare policy, industry, and distribution trends. She also has experience working with national health plans and pharmacy benefit management companies to help self-insured employers understand their healthcare spend while educating their employees to become effective consumers of healthcare.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nancy held positions at Castlight Health; Manatt, Phelps & Phillips; and she was the Chief Operating Officer for Lash Group. She began her consulting career at The Lewin Group.

Nancy holds a DrPH from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill; an MPH from Columbia University; and has been a member of the California State Bar Association since 1995. She is a board member of the Sustainable Kidney Care Foundation.

Kristyne McGuinn

Manager

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KristyneMcGuinn

Kristyne McGuinn, Manager, advises clients on evidence-based medicine, healthcare quality improvement, and quality measurement and reporting. Kristyne also has special expertise in patient registry development and reporting.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kristyne served as a Senior Specialist, Registry Development at the American College of Cardiology and as a Program Director at the National Quality Forum.

Kristyne has a BA in English from Loyola University Chicago and a MHS in Health Policy from Johns Hopkins University.

McGuinn

Kristyne

Manager

Kristyne McGuinn, Manager, advises clients on evidence-based medicine, healthcare quality improvement, and quality measurement and reporting. Kristyne also has special expertise in patient registry development and reporting.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kristyne served as a Senior Specialist, Registry Development at the American College of Cardiology and as a Program Director at the National Quality Forum.

Kristyne has a BA in English from Loyola University Chicago and a MHS in Health Policy from Johns Hopkins University.

Kelly McNair

Associate

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KellyMcNair

Kelly McNair, Associate, advises life sciences companies on the full suite of Avalere’s Business Intelligence products, including the EBM Navigator. Specifically, Kelly focuses on helping clients understand how best to utilize these platforms in the changing healthcare landscape.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kelly was an Events Assistant with The Heritage Foundation, planning and executing its annual Congressional Retreat and other nationwide events and conferences.

Kelly has a BA in Economics from Wake Forest University with a focus on Health Policy and Administration.

McNair

Kelly

Associate

Kelly McNair, Associate, advises life sciences companies on the full suite of Avalere’s Business Intelligence products, including the EBM Navigator. Specifically, Kelly focuses on helping clients understand how best to utilize these platforms in the changing healthcare landscape.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kelly was an Events Assistant with The Heritage Foundation, planning and executing its annual Congressional Retreat and other nationwide events and conferences.

Kelly has a BA in Economics from Wake Forest University with a focus on Health Policy and Administration.

Kenneth Medley

Senior Manager

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KennethMedley

Kenneth Medley, Senior Manager, oversees Avalere’s Project Accounting and focuses on improving existing and implementing new processes, assuring the accuracy and integrity of the monthly revenue and participating in the development of monthly financial and reporting packages. He uses his strong background in reporting and systems to provide support to project and account teams.

Prior to Avalere, Kenneth was a Financial Analyst at MPR Associates responsible for processing the monthly financial statements, business intelligence reporting and custom report development in Deltek Vision. He also worked on Wall Street as an Operations Analyst at Lehman Brothers in the Hybrid Capital Group.

Kenneth has a MA in Investment Management from Pace University and a BA in Business Administration with a Finance concentration from the University of New Mexico.

Medley

Kenneth

Senior Manager

Kenneth Medley, Senior Manager, oversees Avalere’s Project Accounting and focuses on improving existing and implementing new processes, assuring the accuracy and integrity of the monthly revenue and participating in the development of monthly financial and reporting packages. He uses his strong background in reporting and systems to provide support to project and account teams.

Prior to Avalere, Kenneth was a Financial Analyst at MPR Associates responsible for processing the monthly financial statements, business intelligence reporting and custom report development in Deltek Vision. He also worked on Wall Street as an Operations Analyst at Lehman Brothers in the Hybrid Capital Group.

Kenneth has a MA in Investment Management from Pace University and a BA in Business Administration with a Finance concentration from the University of New Mexico.

Dan Mendelson

CEO

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DanMendelson

Dan Mendelson is CEO of Avalere Health. He leads the firm’s operations, and engages in strategic advisory work for major clients in life sciences, managed care, and the provider segments. Prior to founding Avalere in 2000, Dan served as Associate Director for Health at the White House Office of Management and Budget.

Dan presently serves on the board of directors of two public companies: HMS Holdings and Champions Oncology. He is also on faculty at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. He previously served on the boards of Coventry Healthcare (2005-2013) and Pharmerica (2007-2011), and was on the faculty of the Fuqua School of Business (2000-2014).

Dan speaks frequently and is often quoted in the media on business strategy and public policy matters – typically highlighting the outstanding analytic work of the Avalere staff. He has a BA in Economics and Viola Performance from Oberlin College, and a MPP from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

Mendelson

Dan

CEO

Dan Mendelson is CEO of Avalere Health. He leads the firm’s operations, and engages in strategic advisory work for major clients in life sciences, managed care, and the provider segments. Prior to founding Avalere in 2000, Dan served as Associate Director for Health at the White House Office of Management and Budget.

Dan presently serves on the board of directors of two public companies: HMS Holdings and Champions Oncology. He is also on faculty at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. He previously served on the boards of Coventry Healthcare (2005-2013) and Pharmerica (2007-2011), and was on the faculty of the Fuqua School of Business (2000-2014).

Dan speaks frequently and is often quoted in the media on business strategy and public policy matters – typically highlighting the outstanding analytic work of the Avalere staff. He has a BA in Economics and Viola Performance from Oberlin College, and a MPP from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

Jesse Mendelson

Senior Vice President

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JesseMendelson

Jesse Mendelson, Senior Vice President, oversees the establishment and generation of Avalere’s suite of business intelligence products, with a focus on solutions for the Life Sciences industry. Building on his extensive work with clients across the healthcare spectrum on developing market-ready strategies and tactics, with a particular focus on using technology to keep abreast of market forces and products, Jesse advises clients on the most impactful method of utilizing Avalere’s business intelligence products to make better business decisions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jesse served as a Senior Director for The Advisory Board Company, a Senior Analytics Consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton, and Director of Executive Education for CEB.

Jesse has a BA in History from Yeshiva University and a JD from The Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, and is a certified Project Management Professional by the Project Management Institute.

Mendelson

Jesse

Senior Vice President

Jesse Mendelson, Senior Vice President, oversees the establishment and generation of Avalere’s suite of business intelligence products, with a focus on solutions for the Life Sciences industry. Building on his extensive work with clients across the healthcare spectrum on developing market-ready strategies and tactics, with a particular focus on using technology to keep abreast of market forces and products, Jesse advises clients on the most impactful method of utilizing Avalere’s business intelligence products to make better business decisions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jesse served as a Senior Director for The Advisory Board Company, a Senior Analytics Consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton, and Director of Executive Education for CEB.

Jesse has a BA in History from Yeshiva University and a JD from The Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, and is a certified Project Management Professional by the Project Management Institute.

Tiernan Meyer

Manager

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TiernanMeyer

Tiernan Meyer, Manager, supports Avalere clients in analytic and strategic engagements focused on Medicaid, state health policy trends, and the impact of federal health reform. Tiernan leads Avalere’s Medicaid policy tracking—including states’ decisions around expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act—and our analysis of trends and enrollment in Medicaid managed care. She follows Medicaid trends with a particular focus on pharmaceuticals and state cost containment, and has expertise in private exchanges and benefit design trends.

Prior to joining Avalere, Tiernan worked as a health educator at the Delta Area Health Education Center in Helena, AR. Additionally, she analyzed the Chilean public healthcare system while studying in Concepción, Chile.

Meyer

Tiernan

Manager

Tiernan Meyer, Manager, supports Avalere clients in analytic and strategic engagements focused on Medicaid, state health policy trends, and the impact of federal health reform. Tiernan leads Avalere’s Medicaid policy tracking—including states’ decisions around expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act—and our analysis of trends and enrollment in Medicaid managed care. She follows Medicaid trends with a particular focus on pharmaceuticals and state cost containment, and has expertise in private exchanges and benefit design trends.

Prior to joining Avalere, Tiernan worked as a health educator at the Delta Area Health Education Center in Helena, AR. Additionally, she analyzed the Chilean public healthcare system while studying in Concepción, Chile.

Tiernan has a BA in neuroscience from Middlebury College.

Kristi Mitchell

Senior Vice President

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KristiMitchell

Kristi Mitchell, Senior Vice President, leads client engagements involving the use of clinical data for strategic decision-making across multiple industries, including life sciences, health plans, and professional societies. In this capacity, she provides strategic guidance for innovative collection and utilization of data, as well as, oversees the diffusion of best practice in quality measurement development, implementation, and evaluation across multiples industries.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kristi worked at the American College of Cardiology (ACC), leading the development of the National Cardiovascular Data Registry, most recently as the Chief Science Officer. Prior to the ACC, she assessed the impact of public health policies, programs, and practices on health outcomes at Battelle Centers for Public Health Policy and Evaluation and at the Institute for Health Policy Studies at the University of California, San Francisco.

Kristi has an AB in Human Biology and Public Policy from Brown University and a MPH in Public Health Policy Administration and Epidemiology from University of Michigan. She sits on the FDA MDEpiNet Interim Advisory Committee and the Pew Trust Future of Medical Device Registry Stakeholder Group.

Mitchell

Kristi

Senior Vice President

Kristi Mitchell, Senior Vice President, leads client engagements involving the use of clinical data for strategic decision-making across multiple industries, including life sciences, health plans, and professional societies. In this capacity, she provides strategic guidance for innovative collection and utilization of data, as well as, oversees the diffusion of best practice in quality measurement development, implementation, and evaluation across multiples industries.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kristi worked at the American College of Cardiology (ACC), leading the development of the National Cardiovascular Data Registry, most recently as the Chief Science Officer. Prior to the ACC, she assessed the impact of public health policies, programs, and practices on health outcomes at Battelle Centers for Public Health Policy and Evaluation and at the Institute for Health Policy Studies at the University of California, San Francisco.

Kristi has an AB in Human Biology and Public Policy from Brown University and a MPH in Public Health Policy Administration and Epidemiology from University of Michigan. She sits on the FDA MDEpiNet Interim Advisory Committee and the Pew Trust Future of Medical Device Registry Stakeholder Group.

Tony Mitchell

Senior Associate

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TonyMitchell

Tony Mitchell, Senior Associate, advises clients on pharmaceutical and biotechnology issues and provides support to clients around policy, coverage and reimbursement issues. Tony also has special expertise in market access as it pertains to pharmaceuticals, and incorporating payment and policy issues into strategic analysis and corporate strategy.

Prior to joining Avalere, Tony was a Health Policy Fellow at Novo Nordisk, conducting research on diabetes in the American population and monitoring the effect of the Affordable Care Act and healthcare exchanges on the company’s products and the diabetes population. Prior to that, he was a Government Affairs Fellow at the Podesta Group, supporting clients through health policy and legislation analysis.

Tony holds an JD from St. Louis University and a BA in Political Science from McKendree University.

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Mitchell

Tony

Senior Associate

Tony Mitchell, Senior Associate, advises clients on pharmaceutical and biotechnology issues and provides support to clients around policy, coverage and reimbursement issues. Tony also has special expertise in market access as it pertains to pharmaceuticals, and incorporating payment and policy issues into strategic analysis and corporate strategy.

Prior to joining Avalere, Tony was a Health Policy Fellow at Novo Nordisk, conducting research on diabetes in the American population and monitoring the effect of the Affordable Care Act and healthcare exchanges on the company’s products and the diabetes population. Prior to that, he was a Government Affairs Fellow at the Podesta Group, supporting clients through health policy and legislation analysis.

Tony holds an JD from St. Louis University and a BA in Political Science from McKendree University.

Abby Moorman

Senior Manager

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AbbyMoorman

Abby Moorman, Senior Manager, advises clients on reimbursement and product commercialization in many settings of care including physician office, outpatient department, ASC, and inpatient hospital. Abby, a Certified Professional Coder, also has special expertise in CPT®, HCPCS, ICD-9 and ICD-10 coding and payment.

Prior to joining Avalere, Abby served as a Production Coordinator of the Union Copy Center at the University of Maryland at College Park and prior to that she was a Case Manager at Community Residence.

Abby has a BA in Psychology from the University of Maryland at College Park, where she interned at the Center for Children, Relationships, and Culture Laboratory for the Study of Child and Family Relationships.

Moorman

Abby

Senior Manager

Abby Moorman, Senior Manager, advises clients on reimbursement and product commercialization in many settings of care including physician office, outpatient department, ASC, and inpatient hospital. Abby, a Certified Professional Coder, also has special expertise in CPT®, HCPCS, ICD-9 and ICD-10 coding and payment.

Prior to joining Avalere, Abby served as a Production Coordinator of the Union Copy Center at the University of Maryland at College Park and prior to that she was a Case Manager at Community Residence.

Abby has a BA in Psychology from the University of Maryland at College Park, where she interned at the Center for Children, Relationships, and Culture Laboratory for the Study of Child and Family Relationships.

Andrew Mosso

Director

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AndrewMosso

Andrew Mosso, Director, supports a range of Avalere clients by analyzing healthcare encounters, services and insurance claims. He applies his background in data analytics and healthcare research to develop solutions using large and complex databases. Andrew has nearly three decades of experience with SAS programming with emphasis on Medicare, Medicaid and commercial health insurance claims as well as hospital encounter, military health system and health care survey data.

Prior to joining Avalere, Andrew was a senior consultant at IMS Government Solutions, transitioning, implementing and supporting Department of Defense data products. Prior to that, as a senior analyst with Social and Scientific Systems, he produced complex clinical, economic and financial analyses in partnership with the Federal researchers, economists and physicians.

Andrew has a BFA from New York University and a Masters in Health Services Management from the New School for Social Research, New York, NY. He also is a SAS Certified Professional.

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Mosso

Andrew

Director

Andrew Mosso, Director, supports a range of Avalere clients by analyzing healthcare encounters, services and insurance claims. He applies his background in data analytics and healthcare research to develop solutions using large and complex databases. Andrew has nearly three decades of experience with SAS programming with emphasis on Medicare, Medicaid and commercial health insurance claims as well as hospital encounter, military health system and health care survey data.

Prior to joining Avalere, Andrew was a senior consultant at IMS Government Solutions, transitioning, implementing and supporting Department of Defense data products. Prior to that, as a senior analyst with Social and Scientific Systems, he produced complex clinical, economic and financial analyses in partnership with the Federal researchers, economists and physicians.

Andrew has a BFA from New York University and a Masters in Health Services Management from the New School for Social Research, New York, NY. He also is a SAS Certified Professional.

Lisa Murphy

Director

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LisaMurphy

Lisa Murphy, Director, leads strategic client engagements focused on legislative and regulatory changes to the healthcare system. She supports pharmaceutical manufacturers in preparing for, interpreting, and responding to policy changes resulting from the Affordable Care Act, including the implementation of health insurance exchanges, essential health benefits requirements, and Medicaid expansions. Lisa’s other areas of expertise include the Medicare prescription drug benefit and state policies on prescription drug access.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lisa worked with the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services as a consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton, and served as a Jacob K. Javits Policy Fellow in the Office of U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan.

Lisa has a MPP from the Terry Sanford Institute of Public Policy at Duke University, and graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in Political Science from the University of Richmond.

Murphy

Lisa

Director

Lisa Murphy, Director, leads strategic client engagements focused on legislative and regulatory changes to the healthcare system. She supports pharmaceutical manufacturers in preparing for, interpreting, and responding to policy changes resulting from the Affordable Care Act, including the implementation of health insurance exchanges, essential health benefits requirements, and Medicaid expansions. Lisa’s other areas of expertise include the Medicare prescription drug benefit and state policies on prescription drug access.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lisa worked with the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services as a consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton, and served as a Jacob K. Javits Policy Fellow in the Office of U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan.

Lisa has a MPP from the Terry Sanford Institute of Public Policy at Duke University, and graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in Political Science from the University of Richmond.

Kyla Nave

Senior Manager

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KylaNave

Kyla Nave, Senior Manager Human Resources, integrates her 15 years of combined consulting and human resources experience, to provide an innovative voice to the Avalere HR team. Her role encompasses a wide variety of HR leadership responsibilities, including oversight of the talent acquisition team and function, firm wide talent management, Affirmative Action compliance, compensation and incentive design, and the management of the firm’s Associate Immersion program. It is through these areas of focus, along with continued process development that Kyla works to promote organizational excellence.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kyla was a Senior Consultant with Epicor Software where she managed HR Software implementation projects which included scope writing, business needs analysis, full cycle project management, and product delivery. Prior to that, Kyla was a Senior Generalist for Care Centric, Inc., a business solutions company in the post-acute healthcare market, where she had oversight of employee relations, performance management, recruiting, training, and benefits.

Kyla has a BA in Psychology from Georgia State University.

Nave

Kyla

Senior Manager

Kyla Nave, Senior Manager Human Resources, integrates her 15 years of combined consulting and human resources experience, to provide an innovative voice to the Avalere HR team. Her role encompasses a wide variety of HR leadership responsibilities, including oversight of the talent acquisition team and function, firm wide talent management, Affirmative Action compliance, compensation and incentive design, and the management of the firm’s Associate Immersion program. It is through these areas of focus, along with continued process development that Kyla works to promote organizational excellence.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kyla was a Senior Consultant with Epicor Software where she managed HR Software implementation projects which included scope writing, business needs analysis, full cycle project management, and product delivery. Prior to that, Kyla was a Senior Generalist for Care Centric, Inc., a business solutions company in the post-acute healthcare market, where she had oversight of employee relations, performance management, recruiting, training, and benefits.

Kyla has a BA in Psychology from Georgia State University.

Emil Nedev

Manager

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EmilNedev

Emil Nedev, Manager, advises clients on the effects of legislative, regulatory, and policy changes on the healthcare industry. He also assists US- and Europe, Middle East, and Africa -based early and mid-stage life sciences companies with successfully commercializing their medical products in the US.

Prior to joining Avalere, Emil worked in the investment consulting department of 3E International Ltd. where he focused on real estate and renewable energy system development projects in Eastern Europe.

Emil has a BBA in Finance and International Business as well as a minor in French Language from George Washington University. He graduated with honors Summa Cum Laude.

Nedev

Emil

Manager

Emil Nedev, Manager, advises clients on the effects of legislative, regulatory, and policy changes on the healthcare industry. He also assists US- and Europe, Middle East, and Africa -based early and mid-stage life sciences companies with successfully commercializing their medical products in the US.

Prior to joining Avalere, Emil worked in the investment consulting department of 3E International Ltd. where he focused on real estate and renewable energy system development projects in Eastern Europe.

Emil has a BBA in Finance and International Business as well as a minor in French Language from George Washington University. He graduated with honors Summa Cum Laude.

Diane Norris

Director

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Diane Norris

Diane Norris, Director, provides SAS programming support for a wide range of data analytic projects. In addition, she employs a variety of other programming languages such as Visual Basic.NET and VBA to design software products with an emphasis on robust architecture, user friendliness, and thorough documentation. Diane has extensive experience with cross-application automation of Microsoft Office software and developing clear and meticulous user instructions for a variety of audiences.

Prior to joining Avalere, Diane worked as a Senior Principal Engineer in the Flight Dynamics group at Orbital Sciences Corp. and was a Lead Navigation Engineer for Earth science and geosynchronous satellite missions.

Diane has a BS in Aerospace Engineering from Virginia Tech.

Norris

Diane

Director

Diane Norris, Director, provides SAS programming support for a wide range of data analytic projects. In addition, she employs a variety of other programming languages such as Visual Basic.NET and VBA to design software products with an emphasis on robust architecture, user friendliness, and thorough documentation. Diane has extensive experience with cross-application automation of Microsoft Office software and developing clear and meticulous user instructions for a variety of audiences.

Prior to joining Avalere, Diane worked as a Senior Principal Engineer in the Flight Dynamics group at Orbital Sciences Corp. and was a Lead Navigation Engineer for Earth science and geosynchronous satellite missions.

Diane has a BS in Aerospace Engineering from Virginia Tech.

Kris Norris

Vice President

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KrisNorris

Kris Norris, Vice President, provides SAS programming support for a growing data analytic portfolio, including DataFrame™, our proprietary database of Medicare Part D plan features. He performs analyses on Medicare policy changes and health reform proposals in a variety of settings, including inpatient, skilled nursing facility, hospice, and home health. He also models the financial impact of Medicare payment policies and health reform proposals, and analyzes prescription data in support of drug adherence studies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kris was a SAS programming team manager at Lockheed Martin Federal Healthcare. Kris previously worked as an independent consultant for healthcare and research organizations, as well as companies in the mortgage and commercial banking industries, and for the federal government.

Kris has 20 years of experience with SAS and other software packages. Kris was trained as a programmer while serving in the Marine Corps, and has had further professional training throughout his career, including more than a dozen courses with the SAS Institute. He is SAS-certified.

Norris

Kris

Vice President

Kris Norris, Vice President, provides SAS programming support for a growing data analytic portfolio, including DataFrame™, our proprietary database of Medicare Part D plan features. He performs analyses on Medicare policy changes and health reform proposals in a variety of settings, including inpatient, skilled nursing facility, hospice, and home health. He also models the financial impact of Medicare payment policies and health reform proposals, and analyzes prescription data in support of drug adherence studies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kris was a SAS programming team manager at Lockheed Martin Federal Healthcare. Kris previously worked as an independent consultant for healthcare and research organizations, as well as companies in the mortgage and commercial banking industries, and for the federal government.

Kris has 20 years of experience with SAS and other software packages. Kris was trained as a programmer while serving in the Marine Corps, and has had further professional training throughout his career, including more than a dozen courses with the SAS Institute. He is SAS-certified.

Leila Nowroozi

Senior Vice President

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LeilaNowroozi

Leila Nowroozi, Senior Vice President of Marketing, leads our efforts to ensure that the right mix of the firm's vast expertise is brought to bear on every client's unique challenges. Combining policy expertise and an extensive background in the life sciences space, Leila readily identifies the commercial challenges companies face and works with each client to bring forth an appropriate solution.

Prior to joining Avalere, Leila spent several years in marketing at Pfizer where she was part of the team launching Pfizer's first ophthalmic product for Age-related Macular Degeneration. Leila was also a part of J&J's Pharmaceutical Strategic Marketing Group, where she focused on the commercialization process in global markets. Prior to J&J, Leila was a Cardiovascular Market Analyst at the Advisory Board Company.

Leila has a MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from the University of South Carolina and MBA in Health Sector Management from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business.

Nowroozi

Leila

Senior Vice President

Leila Nowroozi, Senior Vice President of Marketing, leads our efforts to ensure that the right mix of the firm's vast expertise is brought to bear on every client's unique challenges. Combining policy expertise and an extensive background in the life sciences space, Leila readily identifies the commercial challenges companies face and works with each client to bring forth an appropriate solution.

Prior to joining Avalere, Leila spent several years in marketing at Pfizer where she was part of the team launching Pfizer's first ophthalmic product for Age-related Macular Degeneration. Leila was also a part of J&J's Pharmaceutical Strategic Marketing Group, where she focused on the commercialization process in global markets. Prior to J&J, Leila was a Cardiovascular Market Analyst at the Advisory Board Company.

Leila has a MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from the University of South Carolina and MBA in Health Sector Management from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business.

Maya Obiekwe

Senior Associate

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MayaObiekwe

Maya Obiekwe, Senior Associate, advises life sciences companies on syndicated research programs and products, specifically focusing on helping her clients understand and apply these findings in the changing healthcare landscape.

Prior to joining Avalere, Maya was an Account Executive with Perricone MD and a Government Contractor for the US Army Reserve Family Programs Office.

Maya has a BS from Syracuse University, and is currently enrolled in the Executive Masters of Public Health program at Emory University.

Obiekwe

Maya

Senior Associate

Maya Obiekwe, Senior Associate, advises life sciences companies on syndicated research programs and products, specifically focusing on helping her clients understand and apply these findings in the changing healthcare landscape.

Prior to joining Avalere, Maya was an Account Executive with Perricone MD and a Government Contractor for the US Army Reserve Family Programs Office.

Maya has a BS from Syracuse University, and is currently enrolled in the Executive Masters of Public Health program at Emory University.

Megan Olsen

Associate

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MeganOlsen

Megan Olsen, Associate, supports clients in anticipating and navigating federal and state health policies, including the Affordable Care Act. She applies her background in the pharmaceutical industry to advise clients on shaping their business and advocacy strategies in response to legislative and regulatory developments. Megan has specific expertise in Medicaid and health insurance exchanges, and she assists in the firm’s analysis of Medicaid managed care trends.

Prior to joining Avalere, Megan was a Public Policy Fellow with Novo Nordisk, where she assessed the impact of public policy to shape and support the company’s advocacy priorities. Megan previously interned at Avalere Health in the Health Reform practice, as well as with the New York State Department of Labor in the Research and Statistics Division.

Megan has an MPH in Health Policy from George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health and BA in Economics and Psychology from Saint Michael’s College.

Olsen

Megan

Associate

Megan Olsen, Associate, supports clients in anticipating and navigating federal and state health policies, including the Affordable Care Act. She applies her background in the pharmaceutical industry to advise clients on shaping their business and advocacy strategies in response to legislative and regulatory developments. Megan has specific expertise in Medicaid and health insurance exchanges, and she assists in the firm’s analysis of Medicaid managed care trends.

Prior to joining Avalere, Megan was a Public Policy Fellow with Novo Nordisk, where she assessed the impact of public policy to shape and support the company’s advocacy priorities. Megan previously interned at Avalere Health in the Health Reform practice, as well as with the New York State Department of Labor in the Research and Statistics Division.

Megan has an MPH in Health Policy from George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health and BA in Economics and Psychology from Saint Michael’s College.

Prior to joining Avalere Health, Colin was a Senior Consultant in FTI’s Economic Consulting Practice. Before that he consulted for the Inter-American Dialogue’s Migration, Remittances and Development Program.

Colin has a MPP in International Security and Economic Policy and a BA in Economics from the University of Maryland in College Park.

Prior to joining Avalere Health, Colin was a Senior Consultant in FTI’s Economic Consulting Practice. Before that he consulted for the Inter-American Dialogue’s Migration, Remittances and Development Program.

Colin has a MPP in International Security and Economic Policy and a BA in Economics from the University of Maryland in College Park.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kai served as a Senior Administrative Assistant for Veterinary Holistic Care and as a Research Assistant for Clara Hill, PhD at the University of Maryland at College Park.

Kai has a dual BA in Communication and Psychology from the University of Maryland at College Park and a MS in Clinical Community Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. Kai volunteers as a mental health counselor and is seeking licensure in Maryland.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kai served as a Senior Administrative Assistant for Veterinary Holistic Care and as a Research Assistant for Clara Hill, PhD at the University of Maryland at College Park.

Kai has a dual BA in Communication and Psychology from the University of Maryland at College Park and a MS in Clinical Community Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. Kai volunteers as a mental health counselor and is seeking licensure in Maryland.

Jeff Paramore

Director

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JeffParamore

Jeff Paramore, Director, advises Life Sciences clients across a variety of areas including product commercialization, sales force effectiveness and marketing. He applies his background in working with start-up organizations as well as large manufacturers to help clients understand how to navigate today’s dynamic environment when bringing products to market. Jeff has experience in a broad range of therapeutic areas and settings of care, with particular expertise in respiratory and neurology.

Jeff has over 20 years of experience in the sales, marketing and commercialization of pharmaceuticals, laboratory services and medical products, in hospitals as well as and private physician networks. Prior to joining Avalere, Jeff served as Sales Director for MAP Pharmaceuticals as well as key leadership positions with Sunovion and Abbott Laboratories.

Jeff has a BS from Auburn University.

Paramore

Jeff

Director

Jeff Paramore, Director, advises Life Sciences clients across a variety of areas including product commercialization, sales force effectiveness and marketing. He applies his background in working with start-up organizations as well as large manufacturers to help clients understand how to navigate today’s dynamic environment when bringing products to market. Jeff has experience in a broad range of therapeutic areas and settings of care, with particular expertise in respiratory and neurology.

Jeff has over 20 years of experience in the sales, marketing and commercialization of pharmaceuticals, laboratory services and medical products, in hospitals as well as and private physician networks. Prior to joining Avalere, Jeff served as Sales Director for MAP Pharmaceuticals as well as key leadership positions with Sunovion and Abbott Laboratories.

Prior to joining Avalere Roshal interned in the regional office of Senator Charles Schumer and in the Office of Policy and Representation at the BlueCross BlueShield Association. At the BCBSA, he supported the VP of Regulatory and Legislative Policy on private sector innovations in payment reform and quality incentives projects.

Roshal has a BA in Health Policy and Biology from the University of Rochester.

Prior to joining Avalere Roshal interned in the regional office of Senator Charles Schumer and in the Office of Policy and Representation at the BlueCross BlueShield Association. At the BCBSA, he supported the VP of Regulatory and Legislative Policy on private sector innovations in payment reform and quality incentives projects.

Roshal has a BA in Health Policy and Biology from the University of Rochester.

Caroline F. Pearson

Senior Vice President

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Caroline F.Pearson

Caroline Pearson, Senior Vice President, leads Avalere’s Health Reform Practice. In this role, she supports clients in understanding how state and federal policy changes will impact their commercial interests and generating the analytics needed to anticipate and influence policy changes. Caroline has focused on implementation of the ACA, Medicaid managed care, prescription drug coverage, and employer-sponsored insurance trends. She also monitors efforts to contain costs and improve care coordination within the Medicaid program, including initiatives focused on dual eligibles, behavioral health management, and HIV/AIDS coverage. Caroline frequently presents to audiences seeking to understand how health reform changes will impact the market, the stability of employer-sponsored insurance, access challenges for newly insured individuals, and market opportunities in public and private exchanges.

Prior to joining Avalere, Caroline was a research assistant for members of Harvard University's Health Policy Ph.D. program studying Medicare coverage decisions. Caroline also worked at the Monroe County, NY, Department of Public Health.

Caroline has a BA in government from Harvard University.

Pearson

Caroline F.

Senior Vice President

Caroline Pearson, Senior Vice President, leads Avalere’s Health Reform Practice. In this role, she supports clients in understanding how state and federal policy changes will impact their commercial interests and generating the analytics needed to anticipate and influence policy changes. Caroline has focused on implementation of the ACA, Medicaid managed care, prescription drug coverage, and employer-sponsored insurance trends. She also monitors efforts to contain costs and improve care coordination within the Medicaid program, including initiatives focused on dual eligibles, behavioral health management, and HIV/AIDS coverage. Caroline frequently presents to audiences seeking to understand how health reform changes will impact the market, the stability of employer-sponsored insurance, access challenges for newly insured individuals, and market opportunities in public and private exchanges.

Prior to joining Avalere, Caroline was a research assistant for members of Harvard University's Health Policy Ph.D. program studying Medicare coverage decisions. Caroline also worked at the Monroe County, NY, Department of Public Health.

Caroline has a BA in government from Harvard University.

Allison Petrilla

Director

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AllisonPetrilla

Allison Petrilla, Director, works closely with life sciences clients to design observational research studies, health economic evaluations, and market landscape assessments. Allison has particular expertise in retrospective database analysis in both U.S. and ex-U.S. markets and her work has been published across a wide range of therapeutic areas.

Prior to joining Avalere, Allison was a director of HEOR at IMS Health focusing on retrospective study design and economic modeling for life sciences clients, and she was previously a health services researcher for the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and an HEOR consultant with ValueMedics Research.

She received an MPH, with a concentration in health information systems, from the George Washington University School of Public Health & Health Services, in Washington, DC.

Petrilla

Allison

Director

Allison Petrilla, Director, works closely with life sciences clients to design observational research studies, health economic evaluations, and market landscape assessments. Allison has particular expertise in retrospective database analysis in both U.S. and ex-U.S. markets and her work has been published across a wide range of therapeutic areas.

Prior to joining Avalere, Allison was a director of HEOR at IMS Health focusing on retrospective study design and economic modeling for life sciences clients, and she was previously a health services researcher for the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and an HEOR consultant with ValueMedics Research.

She received an MPH, with a concentration in health information systems, from the George Washington University School of Public Health & Health Services, in Washington, DC.

Lakshman Ramamurthy

Vice President

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LakshmanRamamurthy

Lakshman Ramamurthy PhD, Vice President provides creative solutions to life science companies that help accelerate patient access to their innovative products. Former FDA Official with an expertise in Devices and Diagnostics, he is currently serving as a as Industry Representative on the CMS Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee (MEDCAC). Lakshman advises clients on anticipating changing evidentiary demands for regulatory, reimbursement and health economics outcome measures in an evolving healthcare environment.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lakshman worked at the FDA’s CDRH as Senior Reviewer, leading the FDA-CMS Parallel Review pilot project, and later as Policy Advisor and Acting Associate Director. Also with FDA, Lakshman served the Office of Legislation in the Office of Commissioner, on legislative imperatiaves pertaining to device law. Previously, Lakshman served as a Bioinformatics Specialist at GlaxoSmithKline and a Genomics Manager at Almac Diagnostics, Inc.

Lakshman has a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Ramamurthy

Lakshman

Vice President

Lakshman Ramamurthy PhD, Vice President provides creative solutions to life science companies that help accelerate patient access to their innovative products. Former FDA Official with an expertise in Devices and Diagnostics, he is currently serving as a as Industry Representative on the CMS Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee (MEDCAC). Lakshman advises clients on anticipating changing evidentiary demands for regulatory, reimbursement and health economics outcome measures in an evolving healthcare environment.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lakshman worked at the FDA’s CDRH as Senior Reviewer, leading the FDA-CMS Parallel Review pilot project, and later as Policy Advisor and Acting Associate Director. Also with FDA, Lakshman served the Office of Legislation in the Office of Commissioner, on legislative imperatiaves pertaining to device law. Previously, Lakshman served as a Bioinformatics Specialist at GlaxoSmithKline and a Genomics Manager at Almac Diagnostics, Inc.

Lakshman has a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Jackie Risco

Senior Associate

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JackieRisco

Jackie Risco, Senior Associate, leads data tracking and content management for Avalere’s EBM Navigator, a comprehensive online solution designed to anticipate market and regulatory changes in Evidence Based Medicine. Jackie also has special expertise in health systems research, policy analysis and public health program evaluation.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jackie served as a Research Assistant at the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) and interned with the National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI).

Jackie holds a Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Public Health in Public Health Management and Policy from the University of Florida.

Risco

Jackie

Senior Associate

Jackie Risco, Senior Associate, leads data tracking and content management for Avalere’s EBM Navigator, a comprehensive online solution designed to anticipate market and regulatory changes in Evidence Based Medicine. Jackie also has special expertise in health systems research, policy analysis and public health program evaluation.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jackie served as a Research Assistant at the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) and interned with the National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI).

Jackie holds a Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Public Health in Public Health Management and Policy from the University of Florida.

David Robison

Senior Associate

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DavidRobison

David Robison, Senior Associate, provides support on the production of key deliverables to the Evidence Translational & Implementation practice, primarily specializing in systematic literature review, patient outcome measurement, and clinical best practice guidelines. David also has special expertise in the development of clinical databases and patient data repositories.

Prior to joining Avalere, David served as a Research & Laboratory Assistant at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in the Brain Tumor Center & Neuro-Oncology Unit. There, he performed survival analysis on patients with a rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and investigated the degradation of tumor biomarkers in human cerebrospinal fluid samples.

David has a BS in Physiology from McGill University in Montreal, Quebec.

Robison

David

Senior Associate

David Robison, Senior Associate, provides support on the production of key deliverables to the Evidence Translational & Implementation practice, primarily specializing in systematic literature review, patient outcome measurement, and clinical best practice guidelines. David also has special expertise in the development of clinical databases and patient data repositories.

Prior to joining Avalere, David served as a Research & Laboratory Assistant at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in the Brain Tumor Center & Neuro-Oncology Unit. There, he performed survival analysis on patients with a rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and investigated the degradation of tumor biomarkers in human cerebrospinal fluid samples.

David has a BS in Physiology from McGill University in Montreal, Quebec.

Sally Rodriguez

Director

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SallyRodriguez

Sally Rodriguez, Director, provides analytic and strategic support to our clients in the post-acute and long-term care sectors by using data analysis and policy expertise to help them navigate the healthcare market. Sally uses a variety of Medicare and Medicaid data sources to conduct original analyses that shed light on key issues in post-acute and long-term care.

Prior to joining Avalere, Sally worked as an Analyst for the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Prior to GAO, she fielded and analyzed HEDIS CAHPS surveys for the Center for the Study of Services, and worked for a Washington, DC-based policy consultant.

Sally has a BS in Health Promotion Disease Prevention Studies from the University of Southern California and a MPH with a concentration in Policy from George Washington University.

Rodriguez

Sally

Director

Sally Rodriguez, Director, provides analytic and strategic support to our clients in the post-acute and long-term care sectors by using data analysis and policy expertise to help them navigate the healthcare market. Sally uses a variety of Medicare and Medicaid data sources to conduct original analyses that shed light on key issues in post-acute and long-term care.

Prior to joining Avalere, Sally worked as an Analyst for the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Prior to GAO, she fielded and analyzed HEDIS CAHPS surveys for the Center for the Study of Services, and worked for a Washington, DC-based policy consultant.

Sally has a BS in Health Promotion Disease Prevention Studies from the University of Southern California and a MPH with a concentration in Policy from George Washington University.

Chris Root

Vice President

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ChrisRoot

Chris Root, Vice President, partners with Avalere’s product development, content, design and marketing teams to drive a coordinated visual approach and ensure consistent application of the brand. He applies his background in branding, advertising, digital design, data visualization and user experience to develop and grow the creative possibilities of the brand through the firm’s products and services.

Prior to joining Avalere, Chris was Creative Director for the strategic communications segment at FTI Consulting, where he led creative strategy, design and implementation for a wide range of clients and industries. During his tenure, Chris produced award-winning design for healthcare companies such as Bayer, Baxter, Cardinal Health, GE Healthcare, Novartis and Novo Nordisk.

Chris has an Associate of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from the Corcoran College of Art + Design and a BA in Philosophy from Pennsylvania State University.

Root

Chris

Vice President

Chris Root, Vice President, partners with Avalere’s product development, content, design and marketing teams to drive a coordinated visual approach and ensure consistent application of the brand. He applies his background in branding, advertising, digital design, data visualization and user experience to develop and grow the creative possibilities of the brand through the firm’s products and services.

Prior to joining Avalere, Chris was Creative Director for the strategic communications segment at FTI Consulting, where he led creative strategy, design and implementation for a wide range of clients and industries. During his tenure, Chris produced award-winning design for healthcare companies such as Bayer, Baxter, Cardinal Health, GE Healthcare, Novartis and Novo Nordisk.

Chris has an Associate of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from the Corcoran College of Art + Design and a BA in Philosophy from Pennsylvania State University.

Prior to joining Avalere, Linda was an Associate Director of Sales for U.S. Commercial Operations at Merck & Co., Inc., where she led and developed teams representing Diabetes, Atherosclerosis, Respiratory, and Neurology franchises. Prior to that, as Merck’s Communication and Marketing Manager, she created tactical and strategic plans for sales force engagement and execution.

Linda has a BA from Franklin & Marshall College in Biology, Psychology and Philosophy with a focus on artificial intelligence.

Prior to joining Avalere, Linda was an Associate Director of Sales for U.S. Commercial Operations at Merck & Co., Inc., where she led and developed teams representing Diabetes, Atherosclerosis, Respiratory, and Neurology franchises. Prior to that, as Merck’s Communication and Marketing Manager, she created tactical and strategic plans for sales force engagement and execution.

Linda has a BA from Franklin & Marshall College in Biology, Psychology and Philosophy with a focus on artificial intelligence.

Daymelis Santiesteban

Accounts Payable Specialist

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DaymelisSantiesteban

Daymelis Santiesteban, Accounts Payable Specialist, serves as a member of the Accounting team. Daymelis manages all vendor related invoices and contracts, as well as accounts receivables collections. Daymelis has a strong background in accounting and corporate finance.

Prior to joining Avalere, Daymelis served as a Sales Auditor and Accounting Assistant for Stellar Partners. While there, Daymelis was responsible for general ledger reporting, invoicing, and revenue analysis.

Daymelis has a BA in International Studies from the University of South Florida and is pursuing a MA in Public Policy from George Mason University.

Santiesteban

Daymelis

Accounts Payable Specialist

Daymelis Santiesteban, Accounts Payable Specialist, serves as a member of the Accounting team. Daymelis manages all vendor related invoices and contracts, as well as accounts receivables collections. Daymelis has a strong background in accounting and corporate finance.

Prior to joining Avalere, Daymelis served as a Sales Auditor and Accounting Assistant for Stellar Partners. While there, Daymelis was responsible for general ledger reporting, invoicing, and revenue analysis.

Daymelis has a BA in International Studies from the University of South Florida and is pursuing a MA in Public Policy from George Mason University.

Prior to joining Avalere, Frank served as the Director of Managed Services and Principle Solutions Architect for REAN Solutions, in charge of daily operations, maintenance and monitoring of client systems and architecting solutions for client migrating. Prior to REAN, Frank worked for the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) as the System Engineer in charge of creating and deploying their entire network infrastructure.

Frank is currently pursuing a dual degree in Elementary Education and Information Technology.

Prior to joining Avalere, Frank served as the Director of Managed Services and Principle Solutions Architect for REAN Solutions, in charge of daily operations, maintenance and monitoring of client systems and architecting solutions for client migrating. Prior to REAN, Frank worked for the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) as the System Engineer in charge of creating and deploying their entire network infrastructure.

Frank is currently pursuing a dual degree in Elementary Education and Information Technology.

Prior to joining Avalere, Theresa was Manager of Education at eHealth Data Solutions, where she coordinated and monitored software implementation, training and support of customers and collaborated in the software development process. Prior to that, as a Senior Management Associate, she maintained and developed customer relationships while providing training and support.

Theresa has an MA in Sociology from The Ohio State University and a BA in Sociology and English from Oberlin College. She has served on the board and is an active member of Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes.

Prior to joining Avalere, Theresa was Manager of Education at eHealth Data Solutions, where she coordinated and monitored software implementation, training and support of customers and collaborated in the software development process. Prior to that, as a Senior Management Associate, she maintained and developed customer relationships while providing training and support.

Theresa has an MA in Sociology from The Ohio State University and a BA in Sociology and English from Oberlin College. She has served on the board and is an active member of Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes.

Kristie Schmitt

Director

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KristieSchmitt

Kristie Schmitt, Business Development Director, partners with life sciences clients on ways to effectively and successfully navigate the ever-changing healthcare environment. She works with pharmaceutical, medical device, biotech and diagnostic clients to identify challenges and advise them on the many solutions Avalere can deliver.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kristie served as a Regional Account Manager for Diplomat Specialty Pharmacy and as a Professional Sales Representative for Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical.

Kristie has a BA in Communications from California State University at San Bernardino.

Schmitt

Kristie

Director

Kristie Schmitt, Business Development Director, partners with life sciences clients on ways to effectively and successfully navigate the ever-changing healthcare environment. She works with pharmaceutical, medical device, biotech and diagnostic clients to identify challenges and advise them on the many solutions Avalere can deliver.

Prior to joining Avalere, Kristie served as a Regional Account Manager for Diplomat Specialty Pharmacy and as a Professional Sales Representative for Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical.

Kristie has a BA in Communications from California State University at San Bernardino.

Prior to joining Avalere, Stephen served as a Research Assistant at the University of North Carolina’s Gillings School of Public Health and as an Administrative Intern for Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital.

Stephen holds a BA in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Prior to joining Avalere, Stephen served as a Research Assistant at the University of North Carolina’s Gillings School of Public Health and as an Administrative Intern for Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital.

Stephen holds a BA in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Josh Seidman

Senior Vice President

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Josh Seidman

Josh Seidman, Senior Vice President, advises clients on health delivery and payment innovation with a focus on using information technology to guide value-based care models. He applies his background in quality, health IT and patient engagement to accountable care, delivery system transformation and new payment models.

Prior to joining Avalere, Josh was a Managing Director at Evolent Health, where he supported large delivery system clients in quality measurement and performance improvement around clinical transformation, patient engagement and population health management programs. Prior to that, Josh was a Director of Meaningful Use at the Department of Health and Human Services in the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, and before that, the founding President of the Center for Information Therapy and Director of Measure Development at NCQA.

Josh holds a PhD and an MHS, Health Policy and Management from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and a BA from Brown University. Josh currently serves as President of the Society for Participatory Medicine, and is a William B. Ziff Fellow for patient engagement with the Center for Advancing Health.

Seidman

Josh

Senior Vice President

Josh Seidman, Senior Vice President, advises clients on health delivery and payment innovation with a focus on using information technology to guide value-based care models. He applies his background in quality, health IT and patient engagement to accountable care, delivery system transformation and new payment models.

Prior to joining Avalere, Josh was a Managing Director at Evolent Health, where he supported large delivery system clients in quality measurement and performance improvement around clinical transformation, patient engagement and population health management programs. Prior to that, Josh was a Director of Meaningful Use at the Department of Health and Human Services in the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, and before that, the founding President of the Center for Information Therapy and Director of Measure Development at NCQA.

Josh holds a PhD and an MHS, Health Policy and Management from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and a BA from Brown University. Josh currently serves as President of the Society for Participatory Medicine, and is a William B. Ziff Fellow for patient engagement with the Center for Advancing Health.

Debleena Sengupta

Director

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DebleenaSengupta

Debleena Sengupta, PhD, RAC, Director, advises clients on FDA regulatory strategy and policy. She applies her research background in molecular biology and biochemistry, along with over ten years of regulatory experience helping clients with the development, approval and life cycle management of drug and biological products. Debleena has special expertise in both regulatory therapeutic area strategy and CMC, and has worked at brand and generic companies. She also has experience performing FDA regulatory due diligence.

Prior to joining Avalere, Debleena was an Associate Director at Forest Research Institute, providing regulatory affairs strategy and serving as the primary liaison between FDA and the company for a portfolio of CNS drugs. Prior to that, as Manager and Liaison, Global Regulatory Affairs, at Merck & Co. (formerly Schering Plough), she was responsible for the CMC content for a number of products registered in the European Union, as well as international drug filings and approvals.

Debleena has a PhD in Chemistry from Columbia University and a BS in Chemistry from Stanford. She also holds a Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC).

Sengupta

Debleena

Director

Debleena Sengupta, PhD, RAC, Director, advises clients on FDA regulatory strategy and policy. She applies her research background in molecular biology and biochemistry, along with over ten years of regulatory experience helping clients with the development, approval and life cycle management of drug and biological products. Debleena has special expertise in both regulatory therapeutic area strategy and CMC, and has worked at brand and generic companies. She also has experience performing FDA regulatory due diligence.

Prior to joining Avalere, Debleena was an Associate Director at Forest Research Institute, providing regulatory affairs strategy and serving as the primary liaison between FDA and the company for a portfolio of CNS drugs. Prior to that, as Manager and Liaison, Global Regulatory Affairs, at Merck & Co. (formerly Schering Plough), she was responsible for the CMC content for a number of products registered in the European Union, as well as international drug filings and approvals.

Debleena has a PhD in Chemistry from Columbia University and a BS in Chemistry from Stanford. She also holds a Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC).

Timothy Shadyac

Senior Associate

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Timothy Shadyac

Timothy Shadyac, Senior Associate, advises clients on the impact of healthcare reform. He applies his background in the pharmaceutical industry to assess the impact of legislative and regulatory activity in a changing marketplace to help clients shape their advocacy and business strategies. In addition to the ACA, Timothy has special expertise in Medicare Part D and the 340B Drug Pricing Program.

Prior to joining Avalere, Timothy was a Manager of Federal Affairs & Policy at Sanofi U.S., where he monitored and analyzed federal health policy for business impacts and developed action plans in response. Prior to that, as an Analyst in Sanofi’s Partners in Patient Health program, he developed strategies to reflect the patient voice in the regulatory guidance and identified opportunities for partnership with patient advocates and provider groups.

Timothy has a BA in Political Science from Kenyon College.

Shadyac

Timothy

Senior Associate

Timothy Shadyac, Senior Associate, advises clients on the impact of healthcare reform. He applies his background in the pharmaceutical industry to assess the impact of legislative and regulatory activity in a changing marketplace to help clients shape their advocacy and business strategies. In addition to the ACA, Timothy has special expertise in Medicare Part D and the 340B Drug Pricing Program.

Prior to joining Avalere, Timothy was a Manager of Federal Affairs & Policy at Sanofi U.S., where he monitored and analyzed federal health policy for business impacts and developed action plans in response. Prior to that, as an Analyst in Sanofi’s Partners in Patient Health program, he developed strategies to reflect the patient voice in the regulatory guidance and identified opportunities for partnership with patient advocates and provider groups.

Colin has a BA in Government from Harvard University. He was a Center for American Political Studies Student Fellow as part of his senior thesis research, which analyzed the evolution of the budget reconciliation process in the determination of legislative outcomes.

Colin has a BA in Government from Harvard University. He was a Center for American Political Studies Student Fellow as part of his senior thesis research, which analyzed the evolution of the budget reconciliation process in the determination of legislative outcomes.

Claire Sheahan

Senior Vice President

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ClaireSheahan

Claire Sheahan, Senior Vice President, helps clients integrate top-flight communications strategies with their business and policy plans. Claire leads the Avalere Communications practice, serving clients across the healthcare spectrum. With more than 18 years of experience in public relations, public affairs, and corporate communications, she capitalizes on the latest marketplace insights to provide communications services that provide show, not just tell clients stories.

Claire comes to Avalere with both in-house and communications agency experience. She grew and then led the Fleishman Hillard healthcare practice in Washington DC, serving clients in the pharmaceutical, payer, device, non-profit, and government sectors. She also has spent years working on managed care and generics issues, having served as public affairs manager at the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and leading communications at the Generic Pharmaceutical Association. She also contributed to national public health and public safety campaigns at GMMB, an integrated communications firm.

Claire holds a BA in History and Political Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an MSc with Distinction in Media and Communications from the London School of Economics.

Sheahan

Claire

Senior Vice President

Claire Sheahan, Senior Vice President, helps clients integrate top-flight communications strategies with their business and policy plans. Claire leads the Avalere Communications practice, serving clients across the healthcare spectrum. With more than 18 years of experience in public relations, public affairs, and corporate communications, she capitalizes on the latest marketplace insights to provide communications services that provide show, not just tell clients stories.

Claire comes to Avalere with both in-house and communications agency experience. She grew and then led the Fleishman Hillard healthcare practice in Washington DC, serving clients in the pharmaceutical, payer, device, non-profit, and government sectors. She also has spent years working on managed care and generics issues, having served as public affairs manager at the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and leading communications at the Generic Pharmaceutical Association. She also contributed to national public health and public safety campaigns at GMMB, an integrated communications firm.

Claire holds a BA in History and Political Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an MSc with Distinction in Media and Communications from the London School of Economics.

John Shepard

Director

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JohnShepard

John Shepard, Director, advises public and private equity market clients on the impact of federal and state legislative, regulatory and political developments and processes on the healthcare industry. His analysis and insight supports clients’ current and future investments across various healthcare sectors. He applies his background in policy development and research to explain complex healthcare payment, coverage, and policy issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, John was Health Policy Manager at Applied Policy, providing tailored Medicare policy analysis and guidance to primarily healthcare services companies. Prior to that, as Healthcare Policy Analyst for the Washington Research Group for nearly a decade, he informed institutional investors from the nation's largest mutual, hedge, and retirement funds about how Washington legislation and regulations would impact publicly traded healthcare companies. Before joining the Charles Schwab Washington Research Group, he spent four years as a healthcare policy aide to former Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.)

John has a BA from Macalester College.

Shepard

John

Director

John Shepard, Director, advises public and private equity market clients on the impact of federal and state legislative, regulatory and political developments and processes on the healthcare industry. His analysis and insight supports clients’ current and future investments across various healthcare sectors. He applies his background in policy development and research to explain complex healthcare payment, coverage, and policy issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, John was Health Policy Manager at Applied Policy, providing tailored Medicare policy analysis and guidance to primarily healthcare services companies. Prior to that, as Healthcare Policy Analyst for the Washington Research Group for nearly a decade, he informed institutional investors from the nation's largest mutual, hedge, and retirement funds about how Washington legislation and regulations would impact publicly traded healthcare companies. Before joining the Charles Schwab Washington Research Group, he spent four years as a healthcare policy aide to former Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.)

John has a BA from Macalester College.

Chelsea Sherwin

Recruiter

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ChelseaSherwin

Chelsea Sherwin, Recruiter, provides guidance and direction to internal clients on talent acquisition and interviewing strategies. Chelsea has special expertise in university outreach and internship program execution. She applies her background in recruiting and on-boarding to achieve outstanding candidate experiences and new hire engagement.

Prior to joining Avalere, Chelsea was a Senior Human Resources Assistant with The Brattle Group, responsible for the full life-cycle recruiting of analysts and interns, as well as their on-boarding and training. Chelsea has also worked as a Recruiter at Beacon Hill Staffing Group, supporting senior level managers in the staffing of IT professionals.

Chelsea has a BA in History from Denison University.

Sherwin

Chelsea

Recruiter

Chelsea Sherwin, Recruiter, provides guidance and direction to internal clients on talent acquisition and interviewing strategies. Chelsea has special expertise in university outreach and internship program execution. She applies her background in recruiting and on-boarding to achieve outstanding candidate experiences and new hire engagement.

Prior to joining Avalere, Chelsea was a Senior Human Resources Assistant with The Brattle Group, responsible for the full life-cycle recruiting of analysts and interns, as well as their on-boarding and training. Chelsea has also worked as a Recruiter at Beacon Hill Staffing Group, supporting senior level managers in the staffing of IT professionals.

Chelsea has a BA in History from Denison University.

Ilnaz Shirkhorshidian

Senior Manager

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IlnazShirkhorshidian

Ilnaz Shirkhorshidian, Senior Manager, integrates her clinical knowledge as a pharmacist with research and policy experience to advise clients on the development of evidence generation strategies and value messages. She collaborates with life sciences companies to prepare and support clients for product launch, and performs literature critiques, reviews, and syntheses to provide clients with a better understanding of a condition or issue to inform business strategies or advocacy efforts.

Prior to joining Avalere, Ilnaz served as the Executive Resident at the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists and as a Geriatric Pharmacy Resident at the University of New Mexico.

Ilnaz has a PharmD in Pharmacy from the University of New Mexico, College of Pharmacy. She continues to practice clinical pharmacy as a community and geriatric consultant pharmacist.

Shirkhorshidian

Ilnaz

Senior Manager

Ilnaz Shirkhorshidian, Senior Manager, integrates her clinical knowledge as a pharmacist with research and policy experience to advise clients on the development of evidence generation strategies and value messages. She collaborates with life sciences companies to prepare and support clients for product launch, and performs literature critiques, reviews, and syntheses to provide clients with a better understanding of a condition or issue to inform business strategies or advocacy efforts.

Prior to joining Avalere, Ilnaz served as the Executive Resident at the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists and as a Geriatric Pharmacy Resident at the University of New Mexico.

Ilnaz has a PharmD in Pharmacy from the University of New Mexico, College of Pharmacy. She continues to practice clinical pharmacy as a community and geriatric consultant pharmacist.

Prior to Avalere, Danielle was the Director of Health Policy and Reimbursement at ADVI, assisting diagnostic and device clients in developing and implementing coding, coverage and reimbursement strategies, as well as understanding the impact of regulatory and legislative changes. Danielle also worked for Altarum Institute, providing research support, expertise and primary IRB review for TRICARE.

Danielle has a MA in Public Health from the George Washington University and a BA from the University of Virginia.

Prior to Avalere, Danielle was the Director of Health Policy and Reimbursement at ADVI, assisting diagnostic and device clients in developing and implementing coding, coverage and reimbursement strategies, as well as understanding the impact of regulatory and legislative changes. Danielle also worked for Altarum Institute, providing research support, expertise and primary IRB review for TRICARE.

Danielle has a MA in Public Health from the George Washington University and a BA from the University of Virginia.

Sharon Siler

Director

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SharonSiler

Sharon Siler, Director of Business Integrity, supports internal client teams in navigating contracts, conflicts of interest, and compliance issues. Since joining the firm in 2006, Sharon has held positions in Avalere’s Healthcare Networks and Health IT practices, where she focused on the business impacts of payment and delivery reforms.

Before joining Avalere, Sharon was a law clerk with the North Carolina Medicaid Fraud Investigations Unit, as well as the Antitrust and Consumer Litigation Section of the Office of the Attorney General of Virginia. Prior to entering law school, Sharon was a legal assistant at Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton, and a project assistant at Physicians for Social Responsibility.

Sharon holds a BA in Public Policy Studies and a Certificate in Health Policy from Duke University, and a JD from the University of Richmond School of Law.

Siler

Sharon

Director

Sharon Siler, Director of Business Integrity, supports internal client teams in navigating contracts, conflicts of interest, and compliance issues. Since joining the firm in 2006, Sharon has held positions in Avalere’s Healthcare Networks and Health IT practices, where she focused on the business impacts of payment and delivery reforms.

Before joining Avalere, Sharon was a law clerk with the North Carolina Medicaid Fraud Investigations Unit, as well as the Antitrust and Consumer Litigation Section of the Office of the Attorney General of Virginia. Prior to entering law school, Sharon was a legal assistant at Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton, and a project assistant at Physicians for Social Responsibility.

Sharon holds a BA in Public Policy Studies and a Certificate in Health Policy from Duke University, and a JD from the University of Richmond School of Law.

Karla Simei

Vice President

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KarlaSimei

Karla Simei, Vice President, oversees Avalere’s Accounting and Finance functions. She applies her background in accounting, management reporting and financial systems to ensure the accuracy, compliance and relevance of the firm’s financial systems and reporting functions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Karla was a Consultant and controller, assisting professional services firms in process improvement, report automation and data conversion for enhanced accounting efficiency and functionality. Earlier in her career she held positions at Verizon, MCI, and Bank of America.

Karla has a BS in Accounting from the University of Delaware. She is a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Management Accountant.

Simei

Karla

Vice President

Karla Simei, Vice President, oversees Avalere’s Accounting and Finance functions. She applies her background in accounting, management reporting and financial systems to ensure the accuracy, compliance and relevance of the firm’s financial systems and reporting functions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Karla was a Consultant and controller, assisting professional services firms in process improvement, report automation and data conversion for enhanced accounting efficiency and functionality. Earlier in her career she held positions at Verizon, MCI, and Bank of America.

Karla has a BS in Accounting from the University of Delaware. She is a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Management Accountant.

Chris Sloan

Manager

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ChrisSloan

Chris Sloan, Manager, provides strategic analysis and advice to help clients assess the impact of health reform regulations and guidance on their product and business strategies. He has particular expertise in the areas of insurance exchanges, consumer assistance, and American Indian/Alaskan Natives health reform provisions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Chris worked as a media intern at Mary Washington Healthcare, a healthcare provider network.

Chris has a BBA in Economics and Marketing from The College of William and Mary.

Sloan

Chris

Manager

Chris Sloan, Manager, provides strategic analysis and advice to help clients assess the impact of health reform regulations and guidance on their product and business strategies. He has particular expertise in the areas of insurance exchanges, consumer assistance, and American Indian/Alaskan Natives health reform provisions.

Prior to joining Avalere, Chris worked as a media intern at Mary Washington Healthcare, a healthcare provider network.

Chris has a BBA in Economics and Marketing from The College of William and Mary.

Erin Smith

Senior Manager

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Erin Smith

Erin Smith, Senior Manager, provides strategic insights into Medicare fee-for-service reimbursement and innovative payment policies, with particular insight into the development and operationalization of alternative payment models such as Accountable Care Organizations and bundled payments. She helps life sciences companies, providers, and other healthcare industry stakeholders understand and manage evolving market dynamics related to payment and delivery reform initiatives.

Before joining Avalere, Erin served as the Director of the Division of Technical Model Support at CMS in the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, where she led the team that implements the Bundled Payments for Care Improvement initiative and develops new bundled payments models. She also worked as an analyst focused on payment under Medicare’s Physician Fee Schedule. Prior to CMS, Erin was a regulatory and policy analyst specializing in tobacco control at the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland.

Erin graduated from the University of Maryland School of Law with a Health Law and Policy Concentration and BAs in Political Science and Psychology from the University of New Mexico.

Smith

Erin

Senior Manager

Erin Smith, Senior Manager, provides strategic insights into Medicare fee-for-service reimbursement and innovative payment policies, with particular insight into the development and operationalization of alternative payment models such as Accountable Care Organizations and bundled payments. She helps life sciences companies, providers, and other healthcare industry stakeholders understand and manage evolving market dynamics related to payment and delivery reform initiatives.

Before joining Avalere, Erin served as the Director of the Division of Technical Model Support at CMS in the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, where she led the team that implements the Bundled Payments for Care Improvement initiative and develops new bundled payments models. She also worked as an analyst focused on payment under Medicare’s Physician Fee Schedule. Prior to CMS, Erin was a regulatory and policy analyst specializing in tobacco control at the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland.

Erin graduated from the University of Maryland School of Law with a Health Law and Policy Concentration and BAs in Political Science and Psychology from the University of New Mexico.

Sarah Snyder

Senior Manager

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SarahSnyder

Sarah Snyder, Senior Manager, advises clients on developments and trends in the acute, post-acute, and long-term healthcare sectors. She applies her background in policy analysis to help clients define policy alternatives and impacts and understand key regulatory and legislative changes for hospitals and post-acute care providers. She also helps clients navigate new payment and delivery structures, such as CMS’ Bundled Payment for Care Improvement (BPCI) demonstration and accountable care organizations (ACOs)

Prior to joining Avalere, Sarah served as a Program Examiner for the Office of Management and Budget, where she reviewed complex Medicare regulations and demonstrations and developed proposals for the President’s Budget. Additionally, she has worked for HHS’ Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight, contributing to regulation drafting and policy analysis related to Essential Health Benefits. Prior to graduate school, Sarah served as an AmeriCorps Massachusetts Promise Fellow conducting outreach to enroll children and families in low-cost health insurance.

Sarah has a Masters of Public Policy from the George Washington University, Washington, D.C., and a BA in Politics from Brandeis University, Waltham, Mass.

Snyder

Sarah

Senior Manager

Sarah Snyder, Senior Manager, advises clients on developments and trends in the acute, post-acute, and long-term healthcare sectors. She applies her background in policy analysis to help clients define policy alternatives and impacts and understand key regulatory and legislative changes for hospitals and post-acute care providers. She also helps clients navigate new payment and delivery structures, such as CMS’ Bundled Payment for Care Improvement (BPCI) demonstration and accountable care organizations (ACOs)

Prior to joining Avalere, Sarah served as a Program Examiner for the Office of Management and Budget, where she reviewed complex Medicare regulations and demonstrations and developed proposals for the President’s Budget. Additionally, she has worked for HHS’ Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight, contributing to regulation drafting and policy analysis related to Essential Health Benefits. Prior to graduate school, Sarah served as an AmeriCorps Massachusetts Promise Fellow conducting outreach to enroll children and families in low-cost health insurance.

Sarah has a Masters of Public Policy from the George Washington University, Washington, D.C., and a BA in Politics from Brandeis University, Waltham, Mass.

Clara Soh

Director

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ClaraSoh

Clara Soh, Director, provides analysis for clients on the impact of legislation and regulation on business impacts. She applies her background in economics, evidence-based medicine, and policy analysis to help quantify the costs and value of healthcare services to patients and society. Clara has expertise in advising payers, providers, and manufacturers understand and navigate the constantly shifting reimbursement environment.

Prior to joining Avalere, Clara was a Senior Director, Policy and Research, for Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, conducting research and analysis around the value of prescription medicines and patient access. Prior to that, as a Research Associate at Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, she advised the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force on preventive health topics.

Clara has an MPA in Health Policy and Management from New York University and a BS in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry from Yale University.

Soh

Clara

Director

Clara Soh, Director, provides analysis for clients on the impact of legislation and regulation on business impacts. She applies her background in economics, evidence-based medicine, and policy analysis to help quantify the costs and value of healthcare services to patients and society. Clara has expertise in advising payers, providers, and manufacturers understand and navigate the constantly shifting reimbursement environment.

Prior to joining Avalere, Clara was a Senior Director, Policy and Research, for Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, conducting research and analysis around the value of prescription medicines and patient access. Prior to that, as a Research Associate at Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, she advised the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force on preventive health topics.

Clara has an MPA in Health Policy and Management from New York University and a BS in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry from Yale University.

Minnie Song

Senior Manager

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MinnieSong

Minnie Song, Senior Manager, advises clients on generation and implementation of evidence-based strategies for evaluating quality of care and linking it to payment and value creation. She applies her background in life science, public health and business to lead various projects. Minnie also brings expertise in clinical medicine, outcomes research and global health with a focus on infectious diseases and vaccine development.

Prior to joining Avalere, Minnie worked as a Project Manager in Global Health Outcomes at Merck & Co. managing observational studies and utilizing cost-effectiveness models to support product launches. Additionally, she has provided research support to International Vaccine Access Center in the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Minnie also has served as a Medical Officer in Korea’s Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, revising and implementing new national immunization standards and developing vaccination action plans related to disease outbreaks.

Minnie has a MPH and a MBA from the Johns Hopkins University and a MD from the Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.

Song

Minnie

Senior Manager

Minnie Song, Senior Manager, advises clients on generation and implementation of evidence-based strategies for evaluating quality of care and linking it to payment and value creation. She applies her background in life science, public health and business to lead various projects. Minnie also brings expertise in clinical medicine, outcomes research and global health with a focus on infectious diseases and vaccine development.

Prior to joining Avalere, Minnie worked as a Project Manager in Global Health Outcomes at Merck & Co. managing observational studies and utilizing cost-effectiveness models to support product launches. Additionally, she has provided research support to International Vaccine Access Center in the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Minnie also has served as a Medical Officer in Korea’s Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, revising and implementing new national immunization standards and developing vaccination action plans related to disease outbreaks.

Minnie has a MPH and a MBA from the Johns Hopkins University and a MD from the Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.

Corinna Sorenson

Senior Manager

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Corinna Sorenson

Corinna Sorenson, Senior Manager, provides strategic insight to life science companies, health plans, and government agencies, on a wide range of evidence-based medicine policy issues. Corinna has expertise in assisting clients anticipate trends in comparative effectiveness research and health technology assessment, as well as evidentiary requirements of global HTA authorities and U.S. public and private payers, and dynamics between regulatory approval and reimbursement.

Prior to Avalere, Corinna was a Research Fellow at the London School of Economics, where she managed and conducted projects related to health technology assessment/comparative effectiveness research, medical device and pharmaceutical policy, and health policy evaluation. She also has served as Senior Policy and Planning Analyst at FDA in the Office of the Commissioner. Corinna’s research has also been published widely in leading health policy and economics peer-reviewed journals.

Corinna holds a PhD from the London School of Economics and Political Science, as well as a MPH and a MHSA from the University of Michigan.

Sorenson

Corinna

Senior Manager

Corinna Sorenson, Senior Manager, provides strategic insight to life science companies, health plans, and government agencies, on a wide range of evidence-based medicine policy issues. Corinna has expertise in assisting clients anticipate trends in comparative effectiveness research and health technology assessment, as well as evidentiary requirements of global HTA authorities and U.S. public and private payers, and dynamics between regulatory approval and reimbursement.

Prior to Avalere, Corinna was a Research Fellow at the London School of Economics, where she managed and conducted projects related to health technology assessment/comparative effectiveness research, medical device and pharmaceutical policy, and health policy evaluation. She also has served as Senior Policy and Planning Analyst at FDA in the Office of the Commissioner. Corinna’s research has also been published widely in leading health policy and economics peer-reviewed journals.

Corinna holds a PhD from the London School of Economics and Political Science, as well as a MPH and a MHSA from the University of Michigan.

Elana Leventhal Stair

Director

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Elana LeventhalStair

Elana Leventhal Stair, Director, provides analytic and strategic support to clients across the provider spectrum including hospitals, integrated delivery networks and post-acute care providers. Elana focuses in particular on payment delivery system reforms including bundled payments and accountable care organizations as well as on Medicaid and long-term care policy issues. Elana advises clients on business and policy questions within the provider sector using a variety of data sources to conduct strategic business analyses, forecast modelling, and policy analyses.

Prior to joining Avalere, Elana served as a Policy Advisor for the U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee. Before that, she was a Consultant with the Advisory Board Company. While in graduate school, Elana worked for the UK National Coordinating Centre for Health Technology Assessment, the division of the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) dedicated to the assessment of new medical treatments.

Elana has a BA in Physical and Medical Anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania and a MSc in International Health Policy and Health Economics from the London School of Economics.

Stair

Elana Leventhal

Director

Elana Leventhal Stair, Director, provides analytic and strategic support to clients across the provider spectrum including hospitals, integrated delivery networks and post-acute care providers. Elana focuses in particular on payment delivery system reforms including bundled payments and accountable care organizations as well as on Medicaid and long-term care policy issues. Elana advises clients on business and policy questions within the provider sector using a variety of data sources to conduct strategic business analyses, forecast modelling, and policy analyses.

Prior to joining Avalere, Elana served as a Policy Advisor for the U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee. Before that, she was a Consultant with the Advisory Board Company. While in graduate school, Elana worked for the UK National Coordinating Centre for Health Technology Assessment, the division of the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) dedicated to the assessment of new medical treatments.

Elana has a BA in Physical and Medical Anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania and a MSc in International Health Policy and Health Economics from the London School of Economics.

Geoffrey Storchan

Manager

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Geoffrey Storchan

Geoffrey Storchan, Manager, advises clients on reimbursement, policy and market access strategies for diagnostics, medical devices and pharmaceuticals companies. Geoffrey also has special expertise in the areas of oncology and endocrinology.

Prior to joining Avalere, Geoffrey was a Postdoctoral Fellow at the National Institutes of Health, contributing to studies on finding new targets and drugs for endocrine therapies. As a graduate student at Georgetown University, Geoffrey conducted research investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer progression.

Geoffrey holds a BS in Biology from the University of Michigan and a MS and PhD from Georgetown University in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

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Storchan

Geoffrey

Manager

Geoffrey Storchan, Manager, advises clients on reimbursement, policy and market access strategies for diagnostics, medical devices and pharmaceuticals companies. Geoffrey also has special expertise in the areas of oncology and endocrinology.

Prior to joining Avalere, Geoffrey was a Postdoctoral Fellow at the National Institutes of Health, contributing to studies on finding new targets and drugs for endocrine therapies. As a graduate student at Georgetown University, Geoffrey conducted research investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer progression.

Geoffrey holds a BS in Biology from the University of Michigan and a MS and PhD from Georgetown University in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

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Eli Strong

CRM System Administrator

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EliStrong

Eli Strong, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System Administrator, manages Avalere’s internal CRM system and advises internal clients on data management business rules and best practices. Eli also has special expertise in relational database support and training.

Prior to joining Avalere, Eli worked as the Affiliate Database Support Manager for NARAL Pro-Choice America and Field Intern for Human Rights Campaign.

Eli has a BSW and MSW in Social Work from the University of Alabama with a concentration in Program and Agency Administration.

Strong

Eli

CRM System Administrator

Eli Strong, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System Administrator, manages Avalere’s internal CRM system and advises internal clients on data management business rules and best practices. Eli also has special expertise in relational database support and training.

Prior to joining Avalere, Eli worked as the Affiliate Database Support Manager for NARAL Pro-Choice America and Field Intern for Human Rights Campaign.

Eli has a BSW and MSW in Social Work from the University of Alabama with a concentration in Program and Agency Administration.

Lisa Strumwasser

Manager

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LisaStrumwasser

Lisa Strumwasser, Manager, advises clients on the regulatory impact of health reform, focusing on coverage expansion through health insurance exchanges and market reforms. She applies her federal policy experience to help clients assess the impact of the Affordable Care Act on their business strategies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lisa served as the Special Assistant to the Counselors in the Immediate Office of the Secretary at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Prior to this role, she served as Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary for Legislation at HHS. Before her political appointment, Lisa provided legislative and administrative support to Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA) and Congressman Howard Berman (D-CA).

Lisa earned her MPP from Georgetown University and BA in Anthropology from Vassar College. She also served in the Peace Corps (Guyana, 2007-2008).
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Strumwasser

Lisa

Manager

Lisa Strumwasser, Manager, advises clients on the regulatory impact of health reform, focusing on coverage expansion through health insurance exchanges and market reforms. She applies her federal policy experience to help clients assess the impact of the Affordable Care Act on their business strategies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lisa served as the Special Assistant to the Counselors in the Immediate Office of the Secretary at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Prior to this role, she served as Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary for Legislation at HHS. Before her political appointment, Lisa provided legislative and administrative support to Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA) and Congressman Howard Berman (D-CA).

Lisa earned her MPP from Georgetown University and BA in Anthropology from Vassar College. She also served in the Peace Corps (Guyana, 2007-2008).
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Erin Sullivan

Vice President

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ErinSullivan

Erin Sullivan, Vice President, advises clients on product value strategies, market access, and evidence planning and generation. Erin works closely with life sciences clients to analyze market conditions and design evidence generation and market access strategies, create product value propositions and optimal messaging, and conduct modeling and database analyses to support product commercialization efforts. She also assists clients in the design of pre- and post-market clinical development programs to meet the needs of key stakeholders.

Prior to joining Avalere, Erin worked as Senior Director of Health Economics and Reimbursement at Abt BioPharma Solutions, and as Director of Health Economics and Reimbursement at Boston Scientific. Erin also held research positions at The Lewin Group/Quintiles, Covance Health Economics and Outcomes Services, and the Beth Israel Hospital.

Erin has a BS in Psychology from Vanderbilt University, a MPH from the George Washington University School of Hygiene and Public Health, and a PhD in Health Services Research from Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Sullivan

Erin

Vice President

Erin Sullivan, Vice President, advises clients on product value strategies, market access, and evidence planning and generation. Erin works closely with life sciences clients to analyze market conditions and design evidence generation and market access strategies, create product value propositions and optimal messaging, and conduct modeling and database analyses to support product commercialization efforts. She also assists clients in the design of pre- and post-market clinical development programs to meet the needs of key stakeholders.

Prior to joining Avalere, Erin worked as Senior Director of Health Economics and Reimbursement at Abt BioPharma Solutions, and as Director of Health Economics and Reimbursement at Boston Scientific. Erin also held research positions at The Lewin Group/Quintiles, Covance Health Economics and Outcomes Services, and the Beth Israel Hospital.

Erin has a BS in Psychology from Vanderbilt University, a MPH from the George Washington University School of Hygiene and Public Health, and a PhD in Health Services Research from Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Milena Sullivan

Senior Manager

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MilenaSullivan

Milena Sullivan, Senior Manager, advises life sciences clients on the policy impacts of health care reform on their commercial and advocacy priorities, with an emphasis on Medicaid and health insurance exchanges. She also manages engagements with vaccine companies focused on immunization policy and market access.

Prior to joining Avalere, Milena was a Project Manager, Government Affairs and Public Policy, at Novartis, tracking legislative and regulatory developments with respect to vaccines. In addition, she analyzed the impact of the ACA on the division’s products and customers and led trainings for field teams. Prior to that, she was an Associate with the Boston-based MEP Consulting, where she provided business process and strategy support to clients in the healthcare and biotechnology industries.

Milena has an MA in International Policy and Practice from The George Washington University and a BA from Miami University of Ohio. She is also an Adjunct Fellow with the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Sullivan

Milena

Senior Manager

Milena Sullivan, Senior Manager, advises life sciences clients on the policy impacts of health care reform on their commercial and advocacy priorities, with an emphasis on Medicaid and health insurance exchanges. She also manages engagements with vaccine companies focused on immunization policy and market access.

Prior to joining Avalere, Milena was a Project Manager, Government Affairs and Public Policy, at Novartis, tracking legislative and regulatory developments with respect to vaccines. In addition, she analyzed the impact of the ACA on the division’s products and customers and led trainings for field teams. Prior to that, she was an Associate with the Boston-based MEP Consulting, where she provided business process and strategy support to clients in the healthcare and biotechnology industries.

Milena has an MA in International Policy and Practice from The George Washington University and a BA from Miami University of Ohio. She is also an Adjunct Fellow with the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

NatalieSweetnam

Prior to joining Avalere, Natalie worked for Accordia Global Health Foundation, providing programmatic support and conducting research on various health issues and initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa. Natalie also served as a healthcare market research intern at the Cancer Support Community’s Research and Training Institute, where she developed expertise in the oncology field by conducting interviews with breast cancer survivors, writing articles for monthly publication, and conducting research on cost effectiveness studies and cancer.

Natalie holds a B.A. in Health and Societies and a minor in Italian Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.

Sweetnam

Natalie

Senior Associate

Prior to joining Avalere, Natalie worked for Accordia Global Health Foundation, providing programmatic support and conducting research on various health issues and initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa. Natalie also served as a healthcare market research intern at the Cancer Support Community’s Research and Training Institute, where she developed expertise in the oncology field by conducting interviews with breast cancer survivors, writing articles for monthly publication, and conducting research on cost effectiveness studies and cancer.

Natalie holds a B.A. in Health and Societies and a minor in Italian Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.

Tyler Thornhill

Director

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TylerThornhill

Tyler Thornhill, Director, advises public and private equity markets clients on how federal and state legislative, regulatory, and political developments and processes will affect the healthcare industry. His analysis and insight support our clients’ current and future investments across various healthcare sectors.

Prior to joining Avalere, Tyler was a health policy Research Associate for Potomac Research Group and Citigroup Investment Research. Before that, Tyler practiced law in Washington, DC, including work on healthcare antitrust litigation.

Tyler has a BA from the University of Virginia and a JD from the University of Georgia.

Thornhill

Tyler

Director

Tyler Thornhill, Director, advises public and private equity markets clients on how federal and state legislative, regulatory, and political developments and processes will affect the healthcare industry. His analysis and insight support our clients’ current and future investments across various healthcare sectors.

Prior to joining Avalere, Tyler was a health policy Research Associate for Potomac Research Group and Citigroup Investment Research. Before that, Tyler practiced law in Washington, DC, including work on healthcare antitrust litigation.

Tyler has a BA from the University of Virginia and a JD from the University of Georgia.

Prior to joining Avalere, April established MNsure, Minnesota’s health insurance exchange, and served as its Executive Director. Prior to that, as Minnesota’s State Health Economist, she led a team of researchers and analysts tasked with monitoring, analyzing and advising on health policy issues related to cost, quality and access. April also served as the Vice President of Strategic Analysis and Communications for Government Affairs at UnitedHealth Group and as the Director of Competitive Intelligence for United Healthcare.

April holds a MA in Public Health from the University of Minnesota and a BA from Beloit College.

Prior to joining Avalere, April established MNsure, Minnesota’s health insurance exchange, and served as its Executive Director. Prior to that, as Minnesota’s State Health Economist, she led a team of researchers and analysts tasked with monitoring, analyzing and advising on health policy issues related to cost, quality and access. April also served as the Vice President of Strategic Analysis and Communications for Government Affairs at UnitedHealth Group and as the Director of Competitive Intelligence for United Healthcare.

April holds a MA in Public Health from the University of Minnesota and a BA from Beloit College.

Jessica Tyson

Senior Associate

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JessicaTyson

Jessica Tyson, Senior Associate, advises clients on FDA regulatory policy and strategy. She applies her background in life sciences and public health to track policy updates and determine the implications on the regulatory landscape. Jessica has special expertise in microbiology.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jessica completed her graduate research at Northwestern University on the bacterium that causes Legionnaires’ disease. At the Illinois Department of Public Health, she also learned monitoring, testing, and reporting procedures from time spent in the diagnostic laboratories. Before graduate school, she performed microbiology research at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

Jessica has a PhD in Microbiology and will soon be receiving a Master of Public Health from Northwestern University. She has a BS in Biology from The George Washington University.

Tyson

Jessica

Senior Associate

Jessica Tyson, Senior Associate, advises clients on FDA regulatory policy and strategy. She applies her background in life sciences and public health to track policy updates and determine the implications on the regulatory landscape. Jessica has special expertise in microbiology.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jessica completed her graduate research at Northwestern University on the bacterium that causes Legionnaires’ disease. At the Illinois Department of Public Health, she also learned monitoring, testing, and reporting procedures from time spent in the diagnostic laboratories. Before graduate school, she performed microbiology research at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

Jessica has a PhD in Microbiology and will soon be receiving a Master of Public Health from Northwestern University. She has a BS in Biology from The George Washington University.

Angel Valladares

Senior Associate

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AngelValladares

Angel Valladares, Senior Associate, provides research and analytic support for clients within the field of evidence-based medicine and healthcare quality measurement and improvement. Angel has experience in patient-centered outcomes research, program evaluation, population health as well as the design and implementation of clinical research studies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Angel was a Research Assistant at the University of Michigan’s School of Nursing; designing, implementing and managing an NIH-funded research grant. The objective of the project was to develop an innovative virtual platform for delivering evidence-based training to clinicians in a variety of disciplines and professions. Through his training he has harnessed skills and knowledge around population health and epidemiology, statistical and survey methodology, health communications delivery and healthcare policy analysis.

Angel has an MPH from the University of Michigan and a BS in Biological Science and Anthropology from Florida State University.

Valladares

Angel

Senior Associate

Angel Valladares, Senior Associate, provides research and analytic support for clients within the field of evidence-based medicine and healthcare quality measurement and improvement. Angel has experience in patient-centered outcomes research, program evaluation, population health as well as the design and implementation of clinical research studies.

Prior to joining Avalere, Angel was a Research Assistant at the University of Michigan’s School of Nursing; designing, implementing and managing an NIH-funded research grant. The objective of the project was to develop an innovative virtual platform for delivering evidence-based training to clinicians in a variety of disciplines and professions. Through his training he has harnessed skills and knowledge around population health and epidemiology, statistical and survey methodology, health communications delivery and healthcare policy analysis.

Angel has an MPH from the University of Michigan and a BS in Biological Science and Anthropology from Florida State University.

Erin Velez

Senior Associate

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ErinVelez

Erin Velez, Senior Associate, advises clients on policy and commercial issues related to evidence-based medicine and current changes in payment and delivery reform. Erin also has special expertise in therapeutic areas specific to renal disorders and substance abuse.

Prior to joining Avalere, Erin interned at the Renal Research Institute in New York, NY, and served as a Research Assistant at Yale School of Medicine’s Department of Emergency Medicine.

Erin has a BA in History of Science, History of Medicine from Yale University, and a MSPH from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Velez

Erin

Senior Associate

Erin Velez, Senior Associate, advises clients on policy and commercial issues related to evidence-based medicine and current changes in payment and delivery reform. Erin also has special expertise in therapeutic areas specific to renal disorders and substance abuse.

Prior to joining Avalere, Erin interned at the Renal Research Institute in New York, NY, and served as a Research Assistant at Yale School of Medicine’s Department of Emergency Medicine.

Erin has a BA in History of Science, History of Medicine from Yale University, and a MSPH from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Jenna Ventresca

Senior Associate

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JennaVentresca

Jenna Ventresca, Senior Associate, provides support in the development and generation of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in research and policy analysis to analyze policy changes and trends in the ever-changing marketplace.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jenna was an International Research Intern at the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, studying the impact of tobacco in priority countries and applying research findings to determine advocacy and policy strategies. Formerly, she served as a Law Clerk with Steuer, Escovar, Berk and Brown where she focused primarily on social security disability insurance claims.

Jenna has a JD from Case Western Reserve University with a concentration in Health Law and a BS in Health Science from Brock University.

Ventresca

Jenna

Senior Associate

Jenna Ventresca, Senior Associate, provides support in the development and generation of business intelligence products and solutions for the Life Sciences sector. She applies her background in research and policy analysis to analyze policy changes and trends in the ever-changing marketplace.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jenna was an International Research Intern at the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, studying the impact of tobacco in priority countries and applying research findings to determine advocacy and policy strategies. Formerly, she served as a Law Clerk with Steuer, Escovar, Berk and Brown where she focused primarily on social security disability insurance claims.

Jenna has a JD from Case Western Reserve University with a concentration in Health Law and a BS in Health Science from Brock University.

Maria Vogelei

Director

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MariaVogelei

Maria Vogelei, Director, leads our marketing and branding efforts. In this role, she leads efforts to develop and implement campaigns to increase brand awareness and generate qualified leads. She also oversees production of branded promotional materials and identifies channels to enhance content delivery and promote client engagement.

Prior to joining Avalere, Maria served as a Strategic Marketing Director for The Advisory Board Company, an MBA Intern for American Express, and an Account Executive with New York advertising agency Arnold Worldwide.

Maria has a BA in Psychology and Art History from George Washington University and an MBA from Georgetown University.

Vogelei

Maria

Director

Maria Vogelei, Director, leads our marketing and branding efforts. In this role, she leads efforts to develop and implement campaigns to increase brand awareness and generate qualified leads. She also oversees production of branded promotional materials and identifies channels to enhance content delivery and promote client engagement.

Prior to joining Avalere, Maria served as a Strategic Marketing Director for The Advisory Board Company, an MBA Intern for American Express, and an Account Executive with New York advertising agency Arnold Worldwide.

Maria has a BA in Psychology and Art History from George Washington University and an MBA from Georgetown University.

Rusty Walker

Senior Manager

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RustyWalker

Rusty Walker, Senior Manager, provides due diligence and policy impact services to private equity firms investing in the healthcare sector. His work focuses on evaluating and quantifying the effect of regulatory, reimbursement, and legislative risks associated with potential healthcare investments. Rusty has a wide range of experience in Medicare payment policy, including reimbursement for physicians, durable medical equipment, clinical laboratory services, and skilled nursing facilities.

Prior to joining Avalere, Rusty was a Program Examiner for the Office of Management and Budget, where he was responsible for the construction and analysis of policy initiatives, including President’s Budget proposals, and led the Health Division’s review of certain Part B regulations, including the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. His responsibilities also included review of demonstration proposals testing the patient-centered medical home concept. Prior to that as a Policy Analyst in the U.S. Government Accountability Office, he provided research and analysis on projects pertaining to Medicare Advantage (Part C) risk adjustment and payment, and physician credentialing and privileging in VA medical centers.

Rusty has a Masters of Public Administration from the University of Georgia and a BA in Government from the College of William and Mary.

Walker

Rusty

Senior Manager

Rusty Walker, Senior Manager, provides due diligence and policy impact services to private equity firms investing in the healthcare sector. His work focuses on evaluating and quantifying the effect of regulatory, reimbursement, and legislative risks associated with potential healthcare investments. Rusty has a wide range of experience in Medicare payment policy, including reimbursement for physicians, durable medical equipment, clinical laboratory services, and skilled nursing facilities.

Prior to joining Avalere, Rusty was a Program Examiner for the Office of Management and Budget, where he was responsible for the construction and analysis of policy initiatives, including President’s Budget proposals, and led the Health Division’s review of certain Part B regulations, including the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. His responsibilities also included review of demonstration proposals testing the patient-centered medical home concept. Prior to that as a Policy Analyst in the U.S. Government Accountability Office, he provided research and analysis on projects pertaining to Medicare Advantage (Part C) risk adjustment and payment, and physician credentialing and privileging in VA medical centers.

Rusty has a Masters of Public Administration from the University of Georgia and a BA in Government from the College of William and Mary.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jenna interned at Family Services of Westchester in Westchester, NY, and as a Research Assistant at the Robert Linhardt Laboratory at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY.

Prior to joining Avalere, Jenna interned at Family Services of Westchester in Westchester, NY, and as a Research Assistant at the Robert Linhardt Laboratory at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY.

GuanWang

Prior to joining Avalere, Guan was a Staff Accountant at the American Institute of Physics where her responsibilities included assisting the month-end close and preparing and distributing monthly financial statements.

Guan has a dual BS in Accounting and Finance from the University of Maryland. She is a CPA from the State of Maryland.

Prior to joining Avalere, Guan was a Staff Accountant at the American Institute of Physics where her responsibilities included assisting the month-end close and preparing and distributing monthly financial statements.

Guan has a dual BS in Accounting and Finance from the University of Maryland. She is a CPA from the State of Maryland.

Melissa Washington

Executive Assistant

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MelissaWashington

Melissa Washington, Executive Assistant, provides internal client support in the areas of scheduling, time management, and research. She assists Avalere’s Senior Vice President and Vice Presidents within the Reimbursement practice by providing customer service and client follow-up.

Prior to joining Avalere, Melissa served as an Executive Assistant with Dixon Group, Inc. and interned with Rep. Shelley Moore Capito.

Melissa has a BA in Criminology from West Virginia University. She is also a U.S. Army veteran.

Washington

Melissa

Executive Assistant

Melissa Washington, Executive Assistant, provides internal client support in the areas of scheduling, time management, and research. She assists Avalere’s Senior Vice President and Vice Presidents within the Reimbursement practice by providing customer service and client follow-up.

Prior to joining Avalere, Melissa served as an Executive Assistant with Dixon Group, Inc. and interned with Rep. Shelley Moore Capito.

Melissa has a BA in Criminology from West Virginia University. She is also a U.S. Army veteran.

Ken Williams

Director

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KenWilliams

Ken Williams, Director, advises Avalere’s clients on the strategic use of communications and technology to facilitate their commercial and operational imperatives. He specializes in interactive channel strategy and the development of engaging customer-facing tools and programs.

Prior to Avalere, Ken was founding Principal of Kwake Design, a full-service communications, design, and development agency. He also served as Executive Board Member, National Premedical Chair, and blogger at the American Medical Student Association. Previously, Ken worked in Communications at the National Academy of Social Insurance.

Currently, Ken is a master’s candidate in Communication, Culture, and Technology at Georgetown University. He has a BA in Philosophy with university and department honors from New College of Florida/University of South Florida.

Williams

Ken

Director

Ken Williams, Director, advises Avalere’s clients on the strategic use of communications and technology to facilitate their commercial and operational imperatives. He specializes in interactive channel strategy and the development of engaging customer-facing tools and programs.

Prior to Avalere, Ken was founding Principal of Kwake Design, a full-service communications, design, and development agency. He also served as Executive Board Member, National Premedical Chair, and blogger at the American Medical Student Association. Previously, Ken worked in Communications at the National Academy of Social Insurance.

Currently, Ken is a master’s candidate in Communication, Culture, and Technology at Georgetown University. He has a BA in Philosophy with university and department honors from New College of Florida/University of South Florida.

Reginald Williams

Senior Vice President

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ReginaldWilliams

Reginald Williams, Senior Vice President, leads teams that deliver research, analytic, and strategic support to clients, with a focus on the needs of life sciences manufacturers and patient groups. He advises clients on medical technology policy, regulatory and market access strategies for new products, and the evolution of public and private payers' use of evidence for formulating coverage and reimbursement decisions, with a focus on the Medicare program.

Prior to joining Avalere, Reggie was a member of the health policy team at the National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI).He also served as the Howard R. Swearer Public Service intern in the Rhode Island Department of Health's Office of Minority Health.

Reggie has an AB in Biomedical Ethics from Brown University. He also serves on the board of directors of Mental Health America, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people live mentally healthier lives. He is a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research grant reviewer and a member of NASI and Health Technology Assessment International.

Williams

Reginald

Senior Vice President

Reginald Williams, Senior Vice President, leads teams that deliver research, analytic, and strategic support to clients, with a focus on the needs of life sciences manufacturers and patient groups. He advises clients on medical technology policy, regulatory and market access strategies for new products, and the evolution of public and private payers' use of evidence for formulating coverage and reimbursement decisions, with a focus on the Medicare program.

Prior to joining Avalere, Reggie was a member of the health policy team at the National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI).He also served as the Howard R. Swearer Public Service intern in the Rhode Island Department of Health's Office of Minority Health.

Reggie has an AB in Biomedical Ethics from Brown University. He also serves on the board of directors of Mental Health America, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people live mentally healthier lives. He is a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research grant reviewer and a member of NASI and Health Technology Assessment International.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nicholas worked as a regulatory attorney at Sidley Austin LLP where he focused on FDA regulation of drugs, devices, and food. Nicholas counseled clients on FDA regulatory compliance and enforcement actions. Earlier, Nicholas served as a law clerk to the Honorable Robert L. Carter at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Nicholas has a JD from Cornell Law School and an AB in History from Princeton University.

Prior to joining Avalere, Nicholas worked as a regulatory attorney at Sidley Austin LLP where he focused on FDA regulation of drugs, devices, and food. Nicholas counseled clients on FDA regulatory compliance and enforcement actions. Earlier, Nicholas served as a law clerk to the Honorable Robert L. Carter at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Nicholas has a JD from Cornell Law School and an AB in History from Princeton University.

Holly Wittenberg

Director

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HollyWittenberg

Holly Wittenberg, Director, advises clients on a variety of issues affecting hospitals and health systems. She helps clients understand the capabilities necessary to assume risk in new public and commercial payment and delivery models, such as accountable care organizations and bundled payments, as well as how best to align with physicians and post-acute care partners.

Prior to joining Avalere, Holly was a Management Consultant to hospitals and health systems as part of PricewaterhouseCoopers’ provider practice. Before that, Holly worked for the Advisory Board Company. Earlier in her career, Holly was employed by Compaq Computer Corporation’s (now HP) Strategic Planning and Venture Capital groups, and held leadership positions in several dotcoms.

Holly has a BA in Economics from the University of Chicago and a MA in International Management from Thunderbird, The American Graduate School of International Management. She is fluent in Spanish and functional in French.

Wittenberg

Holly

Director

Holly Wittenberg, Director, advises clients on a variety of issues affecting hospitals and health systems. She helps clients understand the capabilities necessary to assume risk in new public and commercial payment and delivery models, such as accountable care organizations and bundled payments, as well as how best to align with physicians and post-acute care partners.

Prior to joining Avalere, Holly was a Management Consultant to hospitals and health systems as part of PricewaterhouseCoopers’ provider practice. Before that, Holly worked for the Advisory Board Company. Earlier in her career, Holly was employed by Compaq Computer Corporation’s (now HP) Strategic Planning and Venture Capital groups, and held leadership positions in several dotcoms.

Holly has a BA in Economics from the University of Chicago and a MA in International Management from Thunderbird, The American Graduate School of International Management. She is fluent in Spanish and functional in French.

Ming Wong

Information and Resource Manager

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MingWong

Ming Wong, Information and Resource Manager, provides internal support in the areas of information and resource management. Ming has more than 13 years of library experience, specializing in online research, web content development, integrated library systems and data quality.

Prior to Avalere, Ming was the Technical Information Specialist with MedImmune responsible for managing a product literature database of publications in core therapeutic areas and providing reference and research services to staff. Prior to that, as the Resource Center Manager at Grantmakers In Health, she managed a searchable web-based database containing grant-making activities of more than 400 foundations.

Ming has a Master of Information and Library Studies from McGill University and a BA in Political Science from Concordia University.

Wong

Ming

Information and Resource Manager

Ming Wong, Information and Resource Manager, provides internal support in the areas of information and resource management. Ming has more than 13 years of library experience, specializing in online research, web content development, integrated library systems and data quality.

Prior to Avalere, Ming was the Technical Information Specialist with MedImmune responsible for managing a product literature database of publications in core therapeutic areas and providing reference and research services to staff. Prior to that, as the Resource Center Manager at Grantmakers In Health, she managed a searchable web-based database containing grant-making activities of more than 400 foundations.

Ming has a Master of Information and Library Studies from McGill University and a BA in Political Science from Concordia University.

Gillian Woollett

Senior Vice President

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GillianWoollett

Gillian Woollett, Senior Vice President, leads our FDA Practice. She provides the "prequel" of scientific and regulatory strategic policy expertise that supports medicinal products gaining approval at the FDA in a manner that allows them to be successful in the public and private reimbursement world. She is building a bridge for Avalere clients from the FDA space into the traditionally separate Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and healthcare policy/business world.

Prior to joining Avalere, Gillian was Chief Scientist at Engel & Novitt, LLP, and was Vice President, Science and Regulatory Affairs at the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO). She joined BIO after being Associate Vice President at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America. She has been an appointee on federal advisory committees to the CDC and the Department of Commerce. Trained as a molecular biologist/immunologist, Gillian publishes in peer-reviewed literature on biotechnology topics, and is a frequent speaker on emerging biosciences and their ability to support better and more focused therapies.

Gillian has a BA, MA in the Natural Sciences Tripos (Biochemistry) from the University of Cambridge, and a DPhil in Immunology from the University of Oxford.

Woollett

Gillian

Senior Vice President

Gillian Woollett, Senior Vice President, leads our FDA Practice. She provides the "prequel" of scientific and regulatory strategic policy expertise that supports medicinal products gaining approval at the FDA in a manner that allows them to be successful in the public and private reimbursement world. She is building a bridge for Avalere clients from the FDA space into the traditionally separate Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and healthcare policy/business world.

Prior to joining Avalere, Gillian was Chief Scientist at Engel & Novitt, LLP, and was Vice President, Science and Regulatory Affairs at the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO). She joined BIO after being Associate Vice President at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America. She has been an appointee on federal advisory committees to the CDC and the Department of Commerce. Trained as a molecular biologist/immunologist, Gillian publishes in peer-reviewed literature on biotechnology topics, and is a frequent speaker on emerging biosciences and their ability to support better and more focused therapies.

Gillian has a BA, MA in the Natural Sciences Tripos (Biochemistry) from the University of Cambridge, and a DPhil in Immunology from the University of Oxford.

Casie Yan

Manager

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CasieYan

Casie Yan, Manager, advises clients on healthcare quality improvement, evidence-based medicine, and quality measurement and reporting. Her area of expertise is working with hospitals and hospital systems to design, implement and evaluate healthcare performance improvement initiatives.

Prior to joining Avalere, Casie served as a Senior Consultant for Navigant Consulting when she advised clients in the areas of hospital operations, workforce efficiency, supply chain management and revenue cycle operations. In her earlier positions with the Advisory Board Company, she worked on a range of issues around hospital and system process improvement.

Casie has a BA in Economics and International Studies - Global Economics Trade & Development with a Minor in Asian Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Yan

Casie

Manager

Casie Yan, Manager, advises clients on healthcare quality improvement, evidence-based medicine, and quality measurement and reporting. Her area of expertise is working with hospitals and hospital systems to design, implement and evaluate healthcare performance improvement initiatives.

Prior to joining Avalere, Casie served as a Senior Consultant for Navigant Consulting when she advised clients in the areas of hospital operations, workforce efficiency, supply chain management and revenue cycle operations. In her earlier positions with the Advisory Board Company, she worked on a range of issues around hospital and system process improvement.

Casie has a BA in Economics and International Studies - Global Economics Trade & Development with a Minor in Asian Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Justin Yang

Senior Associate

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JustinYang

Justin Yang, Senior Associate, supports Life Sciences sector clients with strategic and tactical solutions to market access and patient access issues. He applies his background in health policy and finance to a range of topics including access to and maintenance of patient support programs, stakeholder engagement strategies and policy analysis for current trends in patient-centric care.

Prior to joining Avalere, Justin was a Graduate Student Assistant with Johns Hopkins Center for Global Health. He also served as a Research Assistant for the mHealth Evidence Database, where he reviewed and assessed new literature on mHealth initiatives around the world.

Justin has a MSPH in Health Policy from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Justin also has a BS in Biology and a BA in English from The University of British Columbia.

Yang

Justin

Senior Associate

Justin Yang, Senior Associate, supports Life Sciences sector clients with strategic and tactical solutions to market access and patient access issues. He applies his background in health policy and finance to a range of topics including access to and maintenance of patient support programs, stakeholder engagement strategies and policy analysis for current trends in patient-centric care.

Prior to joining Avalere, Justin was a Graduate Student Assistant with Johns Hopkins Center for Global Health. He also served as a Research Assistant for the mHealth Evidence Database, where he reviewed and assessed new literature on mHealth initiatives around the world.

Justin has a MSPH in Health Policy from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Justin also has a BS in Biology and a BA in English from The University of British Columbia.

Lele Yang

Manager

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LeleYang

Lele Yang, Manager, conducts quantitative analysis, statistical modeling, survey research and program evaluation to a variety of projects here at Avalere. Lele also has special expertise in building economic forecasts to meet different needs such as supply and demand trends for medical products, and company-specific revenue and cost trends.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lele was a Senior Consultant at Deloitte Consulting LLP, where she led the implementation of the Return on Investment (ROI) analysis of a range of health programs at the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Prior to that, she worked as a Senior Research Analyst at NORC at the University of Chicago and successfully managed the delivery of evaluation technical assistance to the Office of Minority Health (OMH)’s grantees. Prior to NORC, Lele worked as a Research Associate for non-profit and private organizations, providing support in program evaluation and data analysis for federal agencies and private foundations.

Lele holds a B.A. in Journalism from Nanjing University, an M.A. in Journalism from Utah State University, Logan, UT and an M.A. in Sociology from the Catholic University of America.

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Yang

Lele

Manager

Lele Yang, Manager, conducts quantitative analysis, statistical modeling, survey research and program evaluation to a variety of projects here at Avalere. Lele also has special expertise in building economic forecasts to meet different needs such as supply and demand trends for medical products, and company-specific revenue and cost trends.

Prior to joining Avalere, Lele was a Senior Consultant at Deloitte Consulting LLP, where she led the implementation of the Return on Investment (ROI) analysis of a range of health programs at the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Prior to that, she worked as a Senior Research Analyst at NORC at the University of Chicago and successfully managed the delivery of evaluation technical assistance to the Office of Minority Health (OMH)’s grantees. Prior to NORC, Lele worked as a Research Associate for non-profit and private organizations, providing support in program evaluation and data analysis for federal agencies and private foundations.

Lele holds a B.A. in Journalism from Nanjing University, an M.A. in Journalism from Utah State University, Logan, UT and an M.A. in Sociology from the Catholic University of America.

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Colin Yee

Senior Associate

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ColinYee

Colin Yee, Senior Associate, supports clients with their post-acute and long-term care policy and strategic goals. He applies his background in public health and policy analysis to assist clients with implementing innovative payment and delivery programs, evaluating the impact of new policies on business operations and understanding current trends in post-acute and long-term care. Colin provides in-depth Medicare claims data analytics expertise, programmatic assistance, and strategic support to post-acute care provider clients participating in CMMI’s Bundled Payments for Care Improvement initiative (BPCI). His experience working with Medicare claims data and BPCI episodic data files enables clients to fully understand and leverage these data to be successful in the program.

Prior to joining Avalere, Colin served as Communications Intern at the University of Michigan’s Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation and as a Scholar in Residence at the National Business Group on Health.

Colin has a MPH from the University of Michigan School of Public Health and a BS in Anthropology and Cellular/Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan.

Yee

Colin

Senior Associate

Colin Yee, Senior Associate, supports clients with their post-acute and long-term care policy and strategic goals. He applies his background in public health and policy analysis to assist clients with implementing innovative payment and delivery programs, evaluating the impact of new policies on business operations and understanding current trends in post-acute and long-term care. Colin provides in-depth Medicare claims data analytics expertise, programmatic assistance, and strategic support to post-acute care provider clients participating in CMMI’s Bundled Payments for Care Improvement initiative (BPCI). His experience working with Medicare claims data and BPCI episodic data files enables clients to fully understand and leverage these data to be successful in the program.

Prior to joining Avalere, Colin served as Communications Intern at the University of Michigan’s Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation and as a Scholar in Residence at the National Business Group on Health.

Colin has a MPH from the University of Michigan School of Public Health and a BS in Anthropology and Cellular/Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan.

Sharon Yeske

Director

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SharonYeske

Sharon A. Yeske, Director of Business Development, works with life sciences clients to help them understand commercial challenges and deliver strategic solutions to effectively and successfully navigate the ever-changing healthcare environment. Sharon has expertise in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, government and health plan sectors, and the pharmacy provider community, specifically in government affairs, public policy, regulatory and strategy development.

Prior to joining Avalere, Sharon was Vice President of Government Solutions at Walgreens Co. supporting the payer teams with strategic and tactical business development solutions, focusing on specialty and home infusion. Sharon also has experience in managed care, the pharmaceutical industry, and a state Medicaid program.

Sharon holds a BS in Pharmacy from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, University of the Sciences, and a MS in Pharmacy from the University of Florida in Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy.

Yeske

Sharon

Director

Sharon A. Yeske, Director of Business Development, works with life sciences clients to help them understand commercial challenges and deliver strategic solutions to effectively and successfully navigate the ever-changing healthcare environment. Sharon has expertise in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, government and health plan sectors, and the pharmacy provider community, specifically in government affairs, public policy, regulatory and strategy development.

Prior to joining Avalere, Sharon was Vice President of Government Solutions at Walgreens Co. supporting the payer teams with strategic and tactical business development solutions, focusing on specialty and home infusion. Sharon also has experience in managed care, the pharmaceutical industry, and a state Medicaid program.

Sharon holds a BS in Pharmacy from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, University of the Sciences, and a MS in Pharmacy from the University of Florida in Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy.

Gwenyth Young

Executive Assistant

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GwenythYoung

Gwenyth Young, Executive Assistant, advises internal clients on scheduling, time management, and research. Gwenyth has special expertise in communication and customer service.

Prior to joining Avalere, Gwenyth served as an Executive Assistant for the Director of the National Cancer Institute at NW Systems for The National Institute of Health and as an Executive Assistant for the President/CEO of Franklin Acquisition, Inc.

Young

Gwenyth

Executive Assistant

Gwenyth Young, Executive Assistant, advises internal clients on scheduling, time management, and research. Gwenyth has special expertise in communication and customer service.

Prior to joining Avalere, Gwenyth served as an Executive Assistant for the Director of the National Cancer Institute at NW Systems for The National Institute of Health and as an Executive Assistant for the President/CEO of Franklin Acquisition, Inc.

Joanna Young

Director

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JoannaYoung

Joanna Young, Director, provides clients with data-driven analysis using her quantitative skills, modeling expertise, and knowledge of different datasets (e.g. Medicare claims data and cost reports). Joanna creates analytical models that support analyses of policy impact on different business lines and the overall healthcare market, profit margin analyses, and federal budgetary impact estimates of proposed legislative changes. She also focuses on data and policy analyses for pharmaceutical products, including the 340B Drug Pricing Program and market access/reimbursement issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joanna served as a Manager at Integrity Management Services, where she designed and conducted claims analyses in support of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' program integrity efforts to combat fraud and assure compliance in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Joanna has a BA and MA in Sociology from the University of Warsaw's Institute of Applied Social Sciences in Poland and a MPP with a concentration in Healthcare Policy and Statistics from The College of William and Mary.

Young

Joanna

Director

Joanna Young, Director, provides clients with data-driven analysis using her quantitative skills, modeling expertise, and knowledge of different datasets (e.g. Medicare claims data and cost reports). Joanna creates analytical models that support analyses of policy impact on different business lines and the overall healthcare market, profit margin analyses, and federal budgetary impact estimates of proposed legislative changes. She also focuses on data and policy analyses for pharmaceutical products, including the 340B Drug Pricing Program and market access/reimbursement issues.

Prior to joining Avalere, Joanna served as a Manager at Integrity Management Services, where she designed and conducted claims analyses in support of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' program integrity efforts to combat fraud and assure compliance in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Joanna has a BA and MA in Sociology from the University of Warsaw's Institute of Applied Social Sciences in Poland and a MPP with a concentration in Healthcare Policy and Statistics from The College of William and Mary.

William Zellweger

Manager

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WilliamZellweger

William Zellweger, Manager, provides research and analytical support to Avalere's pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device clients on coverage and commercialization issues, as well as new product development and lifecycle management. William specializes in the assessment of specialty drug market access, with a focus on oncology.

Prior to joining Avalere, William served as a Desk Analyst at Susquehanna International Group and as an Equity Research Associate at Susquehanna. As a Desk Analyst on Susquehanna’s equity trading desk, William developed actionable trading strategies for equities across the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and healthcare services industries. William also supported the fundamental coverage of equities across the U.S. hospital operator, post-acute care and managed care sectors.

William holds a BA in Business Administration from Franklin & Marshall College.

Zellweger

William

Manager

William Zellweger, Manager, provides research and analytical support to Avalere's pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device clients on coverage and commercialization issues, as well as new product development and lifecycle management. William specializes in the assessment of specialty drug market access, with a focus on oncology.

Prior to joining Avalere, William served as a Desk Analyst at Susquehanna International Group and as an Equity Research Associate at Susquehanna. As a Desk Analyst on Susquehanna’s equity trading desk, William developed actionable trading strategies for equities across the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and healthcare services industries. William also supported the fundamental coverage of equities across the U.S. hospital operator, post-acute care and managed care sectors.

William holds a BA in Business Administration from Franklin & Marshall College.